The Ilkley Food & Drink Festival will return for its seventh annual celebration on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th June 2026, set against the riverside backdrop of Ilkley and the iconic Cow & Calf Rocks.
Now a staple of the Yorkshire summer calendar, the festival continues to evolve, growing each year in scale, production, and ambition. Attendees can expect a weekend filled with live music, chef demonstrations, artisan markets, family entertainment, and brand-new attractions, promising an immersive experience for all ages.
Festival Director Michael Johnston reflected on the milestone:
“I am incredibly proud of what the team has achieved over the past seven years. The festival has grown each year in its production, appearance and experience.
“We’re grateful for the support of the people of Ilkley as well as those travelling to the event from further afield. It’s a stunning location for the event.
“Each year we try to add something new and different. This year, we’re aiming to take the production up a notch, so attendees can expect a different look and feel of the event... and of course a little sprinkle of craziness.”
In response to growing demand, Festival Manager Nikki Orrell added:
“We’ll be adding additional hot food, bars and market traders to the line-up in 2026 to meet demand. Due to the popularity of the event, we're in a position where the number of trader applications massively outweighs the number of spots we have available. That said, we always encourage new traders to apply, especially if their offering is unique or local. We have a fantastic community at the festival — and that includes the traders. We're always open to welcoming others to join the family.”
The festival will once again partner with Bradford Mind, building on the incredible £164,000 already raised for mental health charities across the North of England.
Early Bird Tickets are now available, for more information visit https://ilkleyfoodfestival.com/
Audition for IMTS Spring musical, The Great British Bake Off
Comedy, music & drama this July at Ilkley Playhouse
Flotilla Ilkley Summer 7s returns for a day of top class rugby
Moorfield school invites all to Turner Prize inspired Art Exhibition
Silsden gardeners get ready for Open Gardens Weekend
Solstice runners raise £25,000 for Sue Ryder
Community goes quackers for Burley-in-Wharfedale Duck Race
Amber heat warning issued for West Yorkshire
Ilkley town centre offices could be converted into accommodation
Bin crews to start earlier this week due to the heat
Local food and drink delights at Ilkley Cycle Races
Extra funding expected to deal with potholes
Ilkley Pride celebrates 5 years of inclusion, creativity, and community spirit
Still time to sign up for Solstice Saunter on Sunday
Ilkley gym member crowned British National Powerlifting Champion
Leeds Bradford Airport to launch weekly flights to Santorini
Addingham Gala Festival set to be 'Out of this World'
Review: The 4th Waterman Piano Recital
Ilkley Firefighters unite with Mountain Rescue for Wharfedale Three Peaks
Fusion Chocolate in Ilkley celebrates another award win
