Plans are taking shape for the 2024 Homegrown Food Festival, which will take place in the Applegarth area of Northallerton on Sunday, June 23.
This year’s theme is, Flowing Together for Cleaner Water, to shine a spotlight on the importance of clean, fresh water and some of the threats we face to our waterways and water supplies.
The Homegrown Food Festival was founded in 2012 after a small group of friends came together to plan a family friendly, community event which showcases local produce and producers.
One of the aims is to encourage people to grow their own as well as support the great food and drink produce that’s available right on our doorstep.
In 2023, the event attracted over 8,000 visitors and organisers say it is set to be bigger and better this year.
More than 70 stall holders are already booked, covering everything from baked goods to street food.
A range of cookery demonstrations with local chefs will also take place.
The food theatre will be presented by Cara Houchen, from Take a Bite Media, who has worked with and interviewed some of the biggest names in the culinary world.
A dedicated kidzone will be situated in Applegarth Park and will include events from Pure Wellbeing Arts, Sylvan Lore and Aquatic Finatic.
Kids Kitchen are teaming up with Kiddy Cook with an inspiring line-up of fun and tasty things for children, aged four and above, to make and take away.
The music stage is back along with the Tipple Tent serving a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
This bar will be run by Cameron Smith with Bone Machine Brewery, and for the first time, Northallerton-based, Bayonet Brewing. Visitors can relax while listening to bands and musicians from the area with the festival stage being hosted by local musician, Alex Cromarty, who will also be performing with his band Stax during the event.
Following a successful partnership last year, the Incredible Edible Garden makes a return.
This aims to model sustainable, wildlife-friendly planting, composting, water harvesting, recycling and repurposing where possible.
There will be advice, information and more engaging activities for children to enjoy. Yorkshire Water and the Rotters are also attending to promote water conservation and composting.
One of the founders of the festival, Sally Anderson said: “Our committee has worked hard to create such a popular and hotly anticipated community event.
“The organising team are all volunteers, and we are looking for even more people to get involved and help make this year an even bigger success. Our volunteers come back year after year and have a great time whilst knowing they are making a difference to the community and environment.
“We are always looking for new volunteers to help visitors have a safe and enjoyable day.
“Roles include working with the chefs, welcoming and informing visitors, litter picking and site set up and clear away.
“As it’s National Volunteer Week, it’s an ideal time to sign up.”
Anyone interested in volunteering on the day should email homegrownfoodfest@gmail.com or call Sally on 07906 662403. More information on the event is available at http://www.homegrownfoodfest.co.uk/.
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