Ilkley Food and Drink Festival 2026: Dates announced for Yorkshire festival’s seventh year
The Ilkley Food and Drink Festival will return for its seventh annual celebration next year as dates have been announced.
Ilkley’s Riverside Food Festival organisers have begun discussing new additions to the event and bigger line-ups for 2026.
The festival will be set against the backdrop of Ilkley and the popular Cow and Calf Rocks.
Visitors can expect a weekend packed with live music, chef demonstrations, artisan markets, family entertainment, and new attractions.
The event will partner with Bradford Mind, building on the £164,000 raised for mental health charities across the North of England.
Next year’s dates of the festival will be Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14, 2026 and early bird tickets are now available at the cost of £6.95 for adults, £4.95 for under 16s and free for under 5s.
Festival director, Michael Johnston, said: “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.”
Festival manager, Nikki Orrell, said: “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.”