Bolton Food and Drink Festival Clinches Prestigious National Award!
The Bolton Food and Drink Festival, a cherished highlight in Greater Manchester’s events calendar, has earned notable recognition at the recent NABMA Great British Market Awards 2026. This accolade not only underscores the festival's tremendous growth since its inception in 2005 but also places it among the finest food and drink festivals in the UK.
Celebrating Two Decades of Success
Having captivated the community for over two decades, the Bolton Food and Drink Festival continues to thrive, attracting around 500,000 visitors each year, surpassing even the famed Glastonbury festival in attendance. This four-day celebration, held over the late August Bank Holiday, marked its 20th edition last year, featuring a myriad of independent vendors and culinary celebrities.
Acknowledgement at the NABMA Awards
At the NABMA Great British Market Awards 2026, the Bolton Food and Drink Festival was honored with the title of 'Best Large Speciality Market.' This recognition, awarded to events that showcase significant scale, quality, and social value, was presented by David Catterall, Chief Executive of NABMA. He commended the festival for setting a national benchmark and contributing to the vibrant culture of food and drink in the UK.
Community Spirit and Anticipation for the Future
The festival organizers expressed their gratitude on social media, emphasizing the importance of the traders and visitors who contribute to its unique atmosphere. Cllr Nadeem Ayub, the Executive Cabinet Member for Culture at Bolton Council, echoed this sentiment, celebrating the festival's continuous growth and the strong community ties it fosters.
Looking forward, the Bolton Food and Drink Festival is set to return on August 28 to 31. The anticipation among traders and visitors suggests that this year’s festival will again be a landmark event, showcasing the best of local and national food and drink. With its reputation firmly established, Bolton is poised to welcome an even larger crowd, promising an experience filled with culinary delights and community spirit.
