Traders can now apply to be part of one of the region’s biggest food festivals.
Bishop Auckland Food Festival returns next spring, on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April, promising two days of fun, family entertainment and food.
Thousands are expected to flock to Bishop Auckland town centre across the two days, where there will be over 140 traders selling everything from pulled pork to pancakes, fudge to fried chicken, and craft beer to bubble tea.
And applications are now open for traders to put themselves forward for 2026.
Cllr Karen Alllison, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: “Our festivals programme is a key part of our calendar year. Each event attracts thousands of visitors to our towns and city, providing a great day out for residents and boosting footfall and trade for businesses in the area.
“We’ve already started planning ahead for 2026 with preparations in the works for Bishop Auckland Food Festival. We’re so proud of the fantastic goods produced by our County Durham businesses and our food festivals are a fantastic opportunity for them to grow their customer base. I would encourage any business interested in applying to get their submission in, so that next year we can show what our county has to offer.”
Traders are encouraged to apply with as much information as possible about their business, including their products and produce, and include latest news, awards, images of their set up and links to their social media.
Businesses have until midnight on Friday 9 January to submit their application, with those successful notified shortly afterwards
As well as a host of traders offering delicious street food, Bishop Auckland Food Festival features a series of cookery demonstrations from a star-studded line-up of celebrity chefs, and a packed programme of live entertainment and family activities.
Further details of the festival, including celebrity guest announcements, will be released in the new year.
Traders who wish to be part of the festival can apply online at www.bishopaucklandfoodfestival.co.uk
