The Filey Food Festival has become one of the most popular food and drink events on the Yorkshire coast, attracting thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy artisan produce, street food, local flavours, and the relaxed charm of a traditional seaside town. Whether you are a passionate foodie, a family planning a weekend trip, or a business owner looking to trade at the event, the Filey Food Festival offers something for everyone. Held several times a year in the heart of Filey, this festival has grown from a small local market into a must-visit destination on the North Yorkshire events calendar. In this complete guide, we explore everything you need to know about the Filey Food Festival – from its history and location to what you can expect to eat, drink, and experience when you attend.
What Is the Filey Food Festival?
The Filey Food Festival, also known as the Filey Food & Drink Festival, is a recurring weekend event that brings together dozens of independent food and drink traders from across Yorkshire and the UK. It typically takes place at the Evron Centre and Crescent Gardens in Filey, offering a scenic coastal location within a short walking distance of the shore.
The festival is best known for:
- A wide variety of artisan food stalls
- Street food vendors offering global cuisines
- Local produce from Yorkshire suppliers
- Craft beer, spirits, and speciality drinks
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Free entry for visitors
With over 60–75 stalls at most events, the Filey Food Festival offers one of the largest collections of independent food traders in the region.
Where Is Filey Food Festival Held?
The event is hosted at:
Evron Centre & Crescent Gardens, Filey, North Yorkshire, YO14
This central location makes the festival easy to reach for both locals and tourists. It is close to:
- Filey Beach
- Filey town centre
- Local shops and cafés
- Public transport links
The combination of food stalls and sea air creates a relaxed holiday atmosphere that visitors often describe as one of the festival’s biggest attractions.
When Does the Filey Food Festival Take Place?
Unlike many festivals that run only once per year, the Filey Food Festival is held multiple times annually, usually across different seasons, including spring, summer, and autumn.
Typical features of the schedule:
- Weekend events (Saturday and Sunday)
- Opening hours are around 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Seasonal dates such as Easter, early summer, peak summer, and autumn
This frequent schedule allows visitors to return several times a year and experience new traders and seasonal products.
What Food Can You Expect at the Filey Food Festival?
Food is the star attraction, and the variety is one of the reasons the festival has gained such a loyal following.
Artisan & Local Produce
Many stalls focus on handcrafted and locally sourced products, including:
- Yorkshire cheeses
- Fresh pies and pastries
- Homemade chutneys and preserves
- Artisan breads
- Honey and jams
- Handmade chocolates and fudge
These products are ideal for taking home as gifts or stocking up on high-quality ingredients.
Street Food
The Filey Food Festival is also known for its street food scene. Visitors can often find:
- Gourmet burgers
- Wood-fired pizza
- Greek gyros and wraps
- Thai and Indian curries
- Mexican tacos
- Loaded fries
- Vegan and vegetarian options
The rotating lineup means no two festivals are exactly the same.
Drinks & Alcohol Producers
Many local breweries and distilleries attend the event, offering:
- Craft ales and lagers
- Gin and flavoured spirits
- Fruit wines and cider
- Non-alcoholic speciality drinks
Sampling opportunities are common, making it a great place to discover new favourite brands.
Why the Filey Food Festival Is So Popular
Several factors contribute to the festival’s growing reputation:
Free Entry
Unlike many food festivals that charge admission, the Filey Food Festival is usually free to enter, making it accessible for families and casual visitors.
Seaside Location
The coastal setting gives the event a holiday feel, even for day-trippers from nearby towns such as Scarborough, Bridlington, and Whitby.
Support for Independent Businesses
The festival focuses on small traders and local producers, helping independent food businesses reach new customers.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Wide walkways, open gardens, and relaxed seating areas make it suitable for children and older visitors alike.
Regular Events
Because the festival is held multiple times a year, it stays visible in local tourism marketing and encourages repeat visits.
Tips for Visiting the Filey Food Festival
If you’re planning your first visit, these tips will help you make the most of the experience:
Arrive Early
Mornings are quieter, giving you more space to browse stalls and talk to traders.
Bring Cash (and Card)
Most stalls accept cards, but some smaller traders may still prefer cash.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You’ll be walking and standing a lot while exploring the festival.
Bring a Cooler Bag
If you plan to buy cheese, meat, or chilled items, a cooler bag helps keep them fresh.
Combine With a Beach Visit
Many visitors enjoy a walk along Filey Beach either before or after attending the festival.
Is the Filey Food Festival Good for Families?
Yes, very much so. The festival is considered family-friendly because:
- Entry is free
- The venue is spacious
- There is plenty of outdoor seating
- Food options suit all ages
- The town offers nearby attractions such as the beach and parks
Parents often combine the event with a weekend break or a day trip to the coast.
Trading at the Filey Food Festival
For food businesses, the Filey Food Festival is an attractive trading opportunity due to:
- High visitor numbers
- Tourists as well as local customers
- Repeat events throughout the year
- Strong social media promotion
- A supportive environment for independent brands
Traders range from new startups to established artisan producers, making it an excellent platform for brand exposure.
Filey Food Festival and Tourism
The festival plays a significant role in boosting tourism in Filey and the surrounding region. Hotels, guesthouses, cafés, and shops all benefit from increased foot traffic during festival weekends.
Many visitors plan short breaks around the event, staying in:
- Local hotels
- Bed & breakfasts
- Holiday cottages
- Caravan parks
This makes the Filey Food Festival not just a food event, but a significant contributor to the local economy.
Accommodation Near Filey Food Festival
Popular accommodation options include:
- Seafront hotels in Filey
- Guesthouses near the town centre
- Holiday parks nearby
- Self-catering apartments
Booking early is recommended during festival weekends, especially in summer.
How to Get to Filey Food Festival
By Car
Filey is easily accessible via the A165 and A64. Public car parks are available close to the town centre.
By Train
Filey railway station connects to Scarborough and Hull, facilitating easy access for visitors using public transportation.
By Bus
Several bus routes serve Filey from nearby towns and villages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Filey Food Festival
Is the Filey Food Festival free?
Yes, entry is usually free.
Is the event outdoors?
Yes, most stalls are outdoors around the Evron Centre and Crescent Gardens.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are generally welcome in outdoor areas, but it’s best to keep them on a lead.
How long does the festival last?
Typically, two days (Saturday and Sunday).
Is there seating available?
Yes, there are seating areas, though they can get busy during peak times.
Final Thoughts: Is the Filey Food Festival Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. The Filey Food Festival offers a perfect blend of quality food, friendly atmosphere, and coastal charm. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for another seasonal event, it consistently delivers a great experience.
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