Up to 30,000 people will descend on Shrewsbury for the town's annual food festival – the biggest of its kind in the West Midlands. It will take place on June 25 and 26. The event has overtaken Ludlow Food Festival as the region's premier celebration of fine food and will play host to a glittering line-up of star chefs, live music and free activities for kids – as well as more than 200 artisan producers.                 

The Welsh Invasion

This year's event will feature a Welsh Invasion – with the finest chefs in Wales duelling with their English rivals in a series of head-to-head Chef Demonstrations. Celebrity chef, Stephen Terry of the Great British Menu, will be appearing along with several Welsh Michelin-star holders. Stephen, who trained under Marco Pierre White, will bring his skills to the Wenlock Spring Chef Demonstration Stage. Stephen said: “I can't wait. Shrewsbury has become one of the UK's biggest festivals. I'm looking forward to taking my family for a great day out – and doing a demo while I'm there.”

Food on the go

After the success of last year's 'On Safari' where the town's independent eateries play host to shoot-off events and quirky pop-ups, it's back again. Sponsored by local estate and lettings agents, Monks, The Safari is an ideal way to sample dishes from the town's best menus and really get a taste of what this gastronomic gem has to offer.

Family-friendly

This year the event is again being located in The Quarry Park in Shrewsbury. Nestled next to the glorious river Severn, in 29 acres of stunning parkland, with the backdrop of the bustling medieval town of Shrewsbury, the festival is as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the taste buds! Families are full catered for; with plenty of free children's activities, arts and crafts, live music and lots more. Simply bring a blanket, set-up camp on the hill and soak up the atmosphere!

The price is right

Purse-friendly entrance fees mean that the event is accessible to everyone. Adult tickets remain at 2015 prices at just £6 while children gain entry for £1 and family tickets are a snip at £12. What's more, each year, the festival donates money to a local school to build a garden and Clive Primary School, Shrewsbury, Shropshire was the 2015 recipient.

Festival chief executive Beth Heath said: “We've had to enlarge our festival site because we've staged three shows and each one has been full. This is our fourth consecutive year of major growth. We've got 200 artisans, including 20 hot food vendors so every taste is catered for. There's music, free, fun children's activities, charity areas including Self Help Africa.