Key Points
- · East 17, the iconic British boy band, headlined the live music stage at the Bolton Food and Drink Festival 2025 on the August Bank Holiday weekend.
- · The festival, celebrating its 20th edition, took place from August 22 to August 25 across Bolton town centre.
- · Alongside East 17, other musical acts like Odyssey performed, enriching the event's festive atmosphere.
- · The festival featured over 180 food and drink traders, offering a variety of global cuisines, vegan delights, and sweet treats.
- · Culinary demonstrations were given by celebrity chefs including James Martin and Marco Pierre White.
- · Family-friendly activities included storytelling, arts and crafts, a giant sandpit, and interactive cooking sessions for children.
- · The event was free to enter, promoting inclusivity and widespread community participation.
- · Bolton Council emphasised the festival as a celebration of Bolton’s culture, cuisine, and community spirit.
What Was the Highlight of the Bolton Food and Drink Festival 2025?
The headline musical attraction of the Bolton Food and Drink Festival 2025 was undoubtedly the British boy band East 17. They performed on the festival’s live music stage on the evening of Sunday, August 24, delivering a concert that attracted wide public attention and enthusiasm. East 17 is known for their chart-topping hits and lasting influence on the 1990s pop scene, making their performance a major draw for festival attendees of all ages. Manchester’s Finest reported that East 17’s live set helped create an electrifying atmosphere in Bolton Town Centre, adding musical vibrancy to the food and drink celebrations (Manchester's Finest).
According to the official festival programme, East 17’s concert was scheduled to take place at the Albert Halls’ Festival Hall from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm on Sunday night, serving as the festival’s most anticipated live music event.
What Other Entertainment and Activities Were Available?
The 2025 edition of the Bolton Food and Drink Festival was marked not only by great music but also by a comprehensive offering of culinary delights and family-oriented fun. Over 180 traders participated, providing a rich selection of foods ranging from international street foods to vegan options and local sweet treats. This diversity catered to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences, making the festival accessible and enjoyable for all visitors.
Family-oriented events played a significant role in the festival, featuring creative workshops such as clay boggart crafting, messy play areas, and fruit snack making for young children. The Festival Garden, a leafy area in the town centre, became a hub for these activities. Additionally, the Octagon Theatre hosted a free day of live theatre, storytelling, and arts and crafts, culminating in a bubble-fuelled family disco that was extremely popular among attendees
How Did Celebrity Chefs Contribute to the Festival?
The presence of celebrity chefs added a prestigious culinary dimension to the festival. James Martin, a long-time patron of the event, returned with headline demonstrations, while Marco Pierre White made his debut appearance, adding excitement for food enthusiasts. Both chefs conducted live cookery demonstrations in the Festival Hall, sharing their expertise and engaging with the audience directly.
The open-air Kitchen Theatre also hosted free demos by regional chefs, spreading inspiration for home cooks and aspiring chefs alike. Young chefs were invited to participate in ‘Cook & Dine’ sessions at Albert Halls, where they could follow live demos, prepare dishes, and enjoy their creations together, supported by food vouchers for other festival offerings.
What Was the Community and Council’s Perspective on the Event?
The Bolton Food and Drink Festival has grown into a cornerstone event for the town, celebrating community, culture, and cuisine. Bolton Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Cllr Nadeem Ayub, highlighted the festival’s role in showcasing Bolton’s strengths and fostering inclusivity. He stated, “Our food and drink festival is a celebration of everything Bolton does best – incredible food, activities for all and opportunities to discover new passions. It is a truly inclusive event that brings people together and I am particularly proud of how much is on offer for children, to get involved in hands-on activities that spark confidence and creativity”.
The festival was designed to be affordable and accessible, with free entry and most activities offered without charge—an element that encouraged families and visitors from diverse backgrounds to participate fully. The event also supported tourism and local business, with the official tourism partner Visit Bolton providing a mobile app to help visitors navigate the festival offerings smoothly.
Why Is the Bolton Food and Drink Festival Significant?
Celebrating 20 years, the Bolton Food and Drink Festival has become a prominent event in the UK’s food festival calendar. The combination of live music, celebrity chefs, diverse food options, and family-friendly activities creates a multifaceted experience that appeals to a broad audience. The headline act East 17’s presence underscored the festival’s prominence and ability to attract well-known performers to complement its culinary attractions.
This year’s festival successfully blended cultural entertainment with community engagement, enhancing Bolton's image as a vibrant town with a rich culinary and music heritage. It also served as an ideal way for locals and visitors to enjoy the last days of summer in a festive, welcoming environment.