Bolton Food and Drink Festival: Celebrating Success with National Recognition!

The Bolton Food and Drink Festival, a hallmark of Greater Manchester's culinary scene for over two decades, has recently received national acclaim, enhancing its reputation among the best food festivals in the United Kingdom. This year marks a significant milestone as the festival was honored with the Best Large Speciality Market award at the NABMA Great British Market Awards 2026.

A Festival with a Legacy

Since its inception in 2005, the Bolton Food and Drink Festival has grown exponentially, drawing in crowds that surpass even the famous Glastonbury festival, with an impressive attendance of around 500,000 people each year. The festival not only celebrates local producers and independent vendors but also brings renowned chefs to the forefront. Icons such as Marco Pierre White and James Martin have graced the festival, with Martin noting its transformation over the years as one of his favorite annual events.

Acknowledgment of Excellence

During the awards ceremony, which took place in Birmingham, David Catterall, Chief Executive of NABMA, acknowledged the Bolton festival for setting a national benchmark in terms of quality and social value. The festival’s management expressed their gratitude towards traders and visitors via social media, highlighting the collective effort that contributes to making the event a cherished community tradition.

A Bright Future Ahead

Councilor Nadeem Ayub voiced his excitement regarding the festival's recognition, emphasizing the importance of community support in its growth and success. He remarked on Bolton’s commitment to being a vibrant host for celebrated national events and anticipates an even grander experience for festival-goers this August. The Bolton Food and Drink Festival is set to return from August 28 to 31, promising a four-day celebration filled with gastronomic delights.

This achievement not only reflects the festival's enduring appeal but also celebrates the spirit of the community that continues to thrive on its rich food culture. As anticipation builds for this year's festivities, it is clear that Bolton is proud to showcase its culinary heritage on a national stage.