Industry News

Applications are now open for traders to be part of one of the North East’s most popular food festivals.

Bishop Auckland Food Festival will return to the town’s Market Place on Saturday 22 April and Sunday 23 April.

The Durham County Council-run festival, which this year attracted over 30,000 people, features a jam-packed weekend full of food, fun, and entertainment.

Each year the event is host to hundreds of independent stalls selling everything from sensational street food and delicious desserts to refreshing beverages.

With trader applications now open for 2023, businesses are being encouraged to submit their interest early to ensure they do not miss out.

Vendors are asked to include as much information as possible about their business in their application, including latest news and awards, images of their set up, links to social media and their menu.

Businesses have until Monday 9 January to submit their application, with those successful notified at the end of the month.

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “It’s amazing to think in just 25 weeks’ time Bishop Auckland will be the centre of all things food, and we are really excited to welcome people back once again.

“Each year the festival attracts amazing traders selling a fantastic variety of delicious goodies, so we are looking forward to receiving applications. Our festival has been growing year on year and we are committed to supporting this growth as part of our ambitions for County Durham as the culture county.”

Bishop Auckland Food Festival also features a series of cookery demonstrations from a star-studded line-up of celebrity chefs, as well as a packed programme of family entertainment.

The celebrity guests and details of what people can expect from 2023 are set to be announced in the new year. Traders who wish to be part of the festival can apply online.