Foodies Flock To Belper Festival

Sunday 10th July saw thousands attend Belper’s annual Summer Food, Real Ale and Craft Festival.

The festival, now in its ninth year, was bigger than ever, with an estimated ten thousand visitors coming to the town to experience the best food and drink the area has to offer. It was a huge boost for local producers who got to showcase their wares to a massive audience and a success for the Town Council.

Despite the odd flurry of rain, the free event remained dry throughout the day and families were able to sit in the memorial gardens and enjoy the rides. Whether you were into Russian pies, Pimms or Gluten-Free cakes there was something on offer for even the pickiest of grazers.

During the day, Node56 showcased a selection of Belper’s best musical talent over three different stages on the Market place, Memorial Gardens and Strutt Street. Later, Arkwright’s Pub carried on the celebrations into the evening with sets from vocal harmony group Red Ruff and Water For Dogs.

On Campbell Street there were several vintage cars including a Ford Mustang and a DeLorean DMC-12. Around the back of Kunst Gallery were more vintage cars and the chance for music aficionados to rifle through stacks of vinyl records.

At No.28 Cafe on the Market Place, you could have a little respite from the crowds and sun with drinks, home-made cakes and sandwiches on offer, while at the same time taking in a fascinating display about the Pentrich Revolution (1817) bicentenary project, and an exhibition by the Rycote Art Group, or browsing the stalls. There was even in-house entertainment with an appearance from Dave and Chris.

Were you there? Check out our gallery below to re-visit the best of the festival.