Each year for the last however many years, Sefton Park in Liverpool hosts the entertaining and exciting Food & Drink Festival for Liverpool and every year it seems to grow and grow. This year was certainly no different as myself and my other half embarked on the festival once more.
Armed with our press passes I was asked to cover the event that took place late September across the weekend of the 17th & 18th.
As soon as I arrived my initial reaction was just how many stalls, restauranteurs and foodies there actually were, even compared to the large scale from last year, this year was even bigger than the last as more and more like-minded businesses got involved.
The sun was shining and I was ready to start interacting with the local experts in their particular field of expertise. What I love about this event is just how passionate everyone is regarding what they specialise in.
There’s also something else there that’s hard to put your finger on, perhaps its that local community spirit that’s always been a factor across this wonderful city of Liverpool. Everyone is there to have a great time and interact with each other.
The Marshmallow Company
We started early in order to take some clear photos, knowing that in just an hour or so the place would be packed out and boy was I right!
I was impressed by the level of organisation that went into the event. The events started on time. Areas were sign-posted correctly and there was no wondering where a particular stall was due to being given our event maps on arrival.
Going from stall to stall you could tell each vendor was proud to be there and more importantly, proud of what they’ve brought to the festival in terms of their products. Many had brought along IceCoolTrailers with them in which they kept their produce refrigerated and even frozen in some cases.
Most of these vendors are individual businesses trying to further establish themselves across the region and beyond. What I loved was that nobody said no to having their photo taken or that of their products. They had worked extremely hard on their display and were happy to share it with as many people as possible.
Perfect Samosa
On the Saturday the main headline act was Nadiya Hussain, the winner of last year’s Great British Bake Off. She was a real highlight for everyone at the event and I was almost surprised at just how down to earth she was in real life.
Just as she was arriving through the back area of the main tent, a mother and father asked if their young daughter could have a photograph with her. She didn’t hesitate for a moment to say yes and it just summed up how nice she was, but also reflected on the attitude of everyone associated with the event and their welcoming manner.
There was another guest there who was another favourite of mine, Madeleine Shaw, who carried out a wonderful cooking demonstration on the early Saturday afternoon and was more than happy to meet the crowds after her part was over.
Madeleine Shaw
I really wanted to return on the Sunday to meet Gino D’Campo but alas it was not to be! From what I saw online through social media, he really entertained and impressed the crowd.
And speaking of social media, I wanted to mention the excellent build-up to the event itself. Whether it was through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, they had it fully covered which made it even more exciting once you were there!
The food produced by the restauranteurs was of a very high quality too. There was just so much to choose from, we must have changed our minds too many times to count!
What I loved about this event is that there really was something there for everyone. Whether you’re going with your partner or taking the whole family (including the kids!) there is something there to keep you occupied for hours on end!
Whether that was the Gin & Cocktail area, the Entertainment tent or the food itself, it really was a haven for anyone who loves the world of food and drink, and I’m already excited about next year’s event!
Adam Warren
If you’d like to know more about the event and the upcoming festival next April, please click here to visit the Liverpool Food & Drink Festival’s website. I’ve posted the best of the remaining photos below, enjoy!
For people who love the world of Food & Fitness. This blog brings together recipes, ideas, knowledge & articles from both of these exciting areas! 
Great write up on the food and wine festival Adam. Wonderful photo’s. We will definately go next year on your recommation!!!!!