Leicester Food Festival returns with new attractions and an incredible line-up this August

The countdown is officially on to Leicester Food Festival!

With just a few weeks to go, the much-loved Leicester Food Festival is back at Abbey Park on Saturday to Sunday August 9-10, bringing a jam-packed weekend of street food, top tribute bands, and many new experiences for all ages.

After a sell-out debut and national recognition from The Sun as one of the UK’s best budget-friendly festivals, this is one summer weekend you won’t want to miss.

Festival Director Paul says: “We’re buzzing to be just weeks away from welcoming everyone back to Abbey Park. This year’s festival is absolutely packed from science shows and street food to music and wine tasting. Whether you’re a foodie, a music fan, or just after a great summer day out, there’s something here for you.” 

New for 2025, festivalgoers can relax in the boutique Gin Garden, complete with deck chairs, parasols and a flower wall for those must-have selfies. A nostalgic Hooch Truck will be bringing the retro vibes and free samples.

There’s non-stop live music all weekend with headline sets from some of the UK’s best tribute acts.

On Saturday 9, dance the night away to nostalgic hits from Queen by Mercury and 90s icons Steps brought to life by Steptastic. 

Sunday 10 sees Stereosonics head lining with Stereophonics hits, and boy band mash up McBusted performed by MacBusted. Also hitting the stage are Leicester’s own EAGA Gospel Choir, as seen on Britain’s Got Talent, plus some of the most talented local singers & bands. 

More than 50 food vendors will be offering flavours from around the globe from award-winning smash burgers by Meatcastles, to Jamaican Jerk BBQ, TV famous candyfloss creations from Floss Boss, Shrimps & Tings, Japanese bento boxes, a siu mai bar, noodles, artisan bakes, and much more. 

Drinks will be flowing all weekend long with a range of craft ales, beers, cocktails, Gin, Prosecco, Aperol, Pimm’s, Frozen Margaritas, Bubble Tea, Iced Lattes, fresh milkshakes from Leedham Farm Dairy and more! 

Hosted by Midlands Makers, a huge dedicated undercover market will feature local creators offering unique items from across the region. 

Families are in for a treat with the arrival of local favourite, Stonehurst Farm, complete with a traditional farm shop, a cuddle corner with rabbits and guinea pigs, and their iconic hay bale stack for little ones to explore. 

In partnership with Leicester Restaurant Week and BID Leicester, this year you can catch live cooking demos from some of the city’s best chefs hosted by local TV chef Kwoklyn Wan. There will also a chance to WIN a £250 Restaurant Week voucher to spend! 

But the fun doesn’t stop there. With new acts and entertainment, expect a non-stop schedule including Drag Bingo, an interactive Bubble Magic & Hoola Hoop Show, Kids Skate Park with @SkateParlour, a Climbing Wall, Graffiti Art Workshop, Billy Bates Funfair and an incredible Science Show from the National Space Centre’s Discovery Team! 

Back by popular demand, @thewinefan will be hosting wine tasting classes throughout the weekend. Spaces are very limited, so book ahead. A few tickets will be available on the day but on a first come basis. 

The Leicester Food Festival is proudly supported by Visit Leicester’s ‘Taste The Place’ campaign, celebrating the region’s amazing food and drink scene.

This year’s event will also be raising money for Open Hands Food Bank, helping to support local families in need. 

Tickets start from £5 for kids, and under 5s go free.