Christchurch Food Festival takes over Christchurch Quay, on the Quomps beside the river, as a free food-focused garden party. The organisers say it happens every May, and the 2027 dates have not been announced yet.
The 2026 festival ran over the May Bank Holiday weekend, from Saturday 23 to Monday 25 May, with gates open 10am to 8pm on the Saturday and Sunday and 10am to 5pm on the Monday. It brought well-known chefs, artisan producers and street food together with cookery demos, markets and live music. The organisers estimate about 60,000 visitors each year. There is a Chefs Kitchen, a Sheep Show and a Circus and Slackline School for children. The festival was first organised to celebrate the Millennium, was run by volunteers for 20 years and is now run by Real Food Festivals.
Visitor information
Dates: Not yet announced for 2027.
Cost: Free entry.
Getting there: Car parking is limited on festival weekend. A Park and Stride at Stanpit Recreation Ground, run by the Air Cadets, takes a voluntary contribution. Christchurch station is about a 10-minute walk from the town centre, with up to five trains an hour, and Yellow Buses and the X1 and X2 serve the town.
Dogs: The organisers recommend leaving pets at home. Guide and assistance dogs are welcome.
Family friendly: Yes, with children’s shows and activities.
Where to stay
Christchurch station is a 10-minute walk from the town centre, and the festival is on the Quay. Browse places to stay near Christchurch or read about Christchurch before you book.
