THE Ilkley Food & Drink Festival is set to return for its sixth annual celebration next year taking place on June 14th and 15th.

Festival-goers are invited to a weekend-long celebration featuring live music, chef demonstrations, and marketplaces.

Event Director Michael Johnston said: “To return for a sixth consecutive year is absolutely mind-blowing, and we owe it to the incredible support from the local community. We’re excited to debut as many changes as we can fit in to continue to create a unique experience for those who join us.”

While complete details are yet to be disclosed, festival-goers can anticipate brand-new attractions designed for all ages. These include the introduction of “Foodie Olympics”, designed to engage attendees in captivating and competitive afternoons.

The festival will feature the largest food and drink line-up to date. In 2024, the event highlighted over 120 different independent businesses and small traders across the Street Food Arena and Artisan Markets. Attendees will also have access to an extensive selection of independent bars, complemented by a complete ale house.

“Every year we aim to build on the success of the last. The variety of traders across the festival is something we’re very proud of, and we can’t wait to take it even further. We’re aiming for our most diverse and vibrant selection of independent businesses yet,” added Mr Johnston.

Yet to be announced are two tribute acts to headline each evening of the event, alongside an array of local bands, choirs, duos, and soloists. Additionally, festival-goers can expect a selection of Yorkshire’s best chefs to perform live demonstrations in the Live Cookery Theatre.

Families can also enjoy the Live Entertainers stage, featuring performing arts, magic, and circus shows spanning the afternoon. Further attractions will include art displays, a fun fair and inflatable land, roaming comedy, free kids activities, and more.

The festival will once again be partnering with Bradford Mind in hope of building on the over £127,000 already raised for mental health initiatives across the north.

For more information, early bird tickets, and updates, visit https://ilkleyfoodfestival.com.