All you need to know about Flavour Fest

Plymouth’s city centre is set to come alive with the sights, sounds and flavours of the South West as Flavour Fest returns from Friday 29 to Sunday 31 May 2026. 

As the largest free food and drink festival in the South West, this much-loved annual event brings together top local chefs, producers and street food traders for three days of delicious discoveries. 

About the event

Flavour Fest is a celebration of the region’s incredible food and drink scene, right in the heart of Plymouth. Hosted across the city centre, the event showcases the very best of local produce, from artisan cheeses and baked goods to street food, spirits and sweet treats. 

With live chef demonstrations, tasting opportunities and a buzzing festival atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for anyone who enjoys good food and great company. 

When and where is it happening? 

Flavour Fest takes place from Friday 29 May to Sunday 31 May 2026, with activity spread across the city centre throughout the weekend. You'll find traders, the Entertainment Zone sponsored by the Treasury, the Continental Market, supported by Makret Place Europe, and the Chef Demonstration Stage.

Entry is completely free, making it an easy addition to your weekend plans. 

What can you expect? 

There’s plenty to explore across the three days, whether you want to sample something new or simply soak up the atmosphere. Over 80 traders showcasing the best of the South West’s food and drink. Street food from around the world alongside local favourites. Fresh produce, baked goods, preserves and handmade treats. Live cooking demonstrations from talented local chefs. Tastings and opportunities to meet the producers behind the products. 

From quick bites on the go to ingredients to take home, there’s something for every taste. 

Traders 

You'll find an enormity of traders at this year's event! Get ready to indulge at Flavour Fest, where over 80 food traders are serving up an irresistible selection of treats. From rich brownies and freshly baked delights to some of the finest local produce to take home, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

And that’s just the beginning, explore an incredible street food line-up featuring flavours from Nepal, the Caribbean, Greece, and Italy, alongside juicy burgers and pillowy bao buns. Come hungry, there’s a world of flavour waiting. Check out the full list of traders coming to Flavour Fest this year. 

Chef demonstrations

A highlight of Flavour Fest is the packed programme of live cooking demonstrations on the main stage in the Piazza. Expect a mix of well-known local chefs and rising talent sharing tips, recipes and inspiration throughout the weekend. 

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Flavour Fest for a Fiver

If you’re looking to enjoy great food without stretching your budget, keep an eye out for the popular Flavour Fest for a Fiver offers. A selection of traders across the festival will be serving up dishes for just £5, giving you the chance to sample a variety of flavours while you explore. 

Check out the Continental Market 

You’ll also find the vibrant Continental Market along New George Street, where traders bring a taste of Europe to the city centre. Expect everything from freshly baked pastries and artisan breads to cured meats, cheeses and sweet treats – perfect for picking up something a little different as you wander through the festival.

The Continental Market is supported by Market Place Europe.

Live entertainment 

Head to the Entertainment Zone sponsored by The Treasury, for three days of live entertainment and music. There's a packed schedule throughout the three days and it's free to watch! Grab a bite to eat or a drink from the outdoor bar and watch the performances across the weekend! Check out who is playing at the Entertainment Zone. 

Travel information 

Here is the travel information to help you plan your visit to Flavour Fest in Plymouth city centre, including details on parking, public transport, Park and Ride services, and walking routes from the train station. 

By car 

There are over 50 car parks and more than 5,200 parking spaces in Plymouth. 19 of these car parks are situated in and around the city centre, varying from short term and long-term stays. 

Find out more on where to park in Plymouth here. 

By bus and coach 

Plymouth City Council has published a plan your bus journey page together to help find which bus you need to catch, where to catch it from and what time it leaves. You can also find location-specific services and bus travel information via Stagecoach. 

Park and Ride 

Stagecoach operate all three park and ride sites in Plymouth; Coypool, the George and Milehouse. Services run from Monday to Saturday (excluding bank holidays) and are every 10 to 12 minutes (can be up to 15 minutes at certain times).  

Visit the Park and Ride website for further details. 

Train Travel 

Plymouth Train Station is located only a short 10 minute walk from Flavour Fest. Once arrived at the station, please exit and turn right onto Saltash Road, turn left up towards North Cross roundabout, go under the underpass and and turn right towards Plymouth City Centre. 

Visit the National Rail website for further details. 

Accessibility information 

Flavour Fest takes place in a large, largely pedestrianised city centre area with wide, even, slabbed pavements, making it generally accessible for wheelchair users and those with mobility aids. The first hour of each day tends to be the quietest, which can be helpful if you prefer to visit when it’s less busy. 

If you need assistance while you’re on site, look out for stewards in yellow jackets or event staff in orange jackets, who will be happy to help. If you have any questions about access or inclusion before you visit, you can email the team at eventaccess@plymouth.gov.uk 

Facilities and chill-out spaces 

There are public toilets, including accessible toilets, on Armada Way close to the event site. You’ll also find benches across the city centre, available on a first-come, first-served basis if you need to take a break. 

If you or someone in your group would benefit from a quieter space away from the crowds, several nearby venues are happy to welcome visitors looking for a calm environment, including Moments Café on New George Street, Coffee Time on Cornwall Street and The Treasury on Catherine Street. 

Blue Badge parking 

There are a number of car parks and on-street spaces near the festival site that offer Blue Badge parking. These include Courtenay Street, Cornwall Street (East and West), Guildhall and St Andrews car parks, each with dedicated disabled bays. You can also check the full list of Blue Badge parking in Plymouth online before you travel to choose the most convenient option. 

Safe spaces 

Plymouth has a network of registered Safe Places for anyone who feels anxious, scared or at risk while out and about in the city. You can find more details on the Safe Places website, or speak to stewards or event staff at Flavour Fest, who can direct you to support if you need it. 

For further themed Plymouth inspiration, exclusive offers and things to do in the city, sign up to our free Visit Plymouth e-newsletter.

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In partnership with GWR, Destination Plymouth’s lead travel partner