What is the St Ives Food and Drink Festival?
If you are looking for the perfect reason to visit St. Ives this weekend, the St Ives Food Festival is an event not to be missed. Set against the stunning backdrop of Porthminster Beach, this unique three-day festival returns from the 15th to the 17th May 2026 and promises an unforgettable weekend of food, music, entertainment, and family fun.
The UK’s Only Beach Food Festival
There is something truly special about enjoying incredible food and live entertainment with golden sand beneath your feet and panoramic sea views all around you. The St Ives Food Festival proudly holds the title of the UK’s only beach food festival, creating an atmosphere unlike any other event in the country.
Whether you are a passionate foodie, a music lover, or simply looking for a fantastic day out by the coast, the festival brings together people of all ages and interests in one of Cornwall’s most beautiful locations.
Free Entry and Entertainment
One of the best things about the St Ives Food Festival is that it is completely free to attend. Visitors can enjoy a packed schedule of activities throughout the weekend without the need for expensive tickets.
Across the festival, you can experience:
- Free chef demonstrations from talented local and national chefs
- Artisan food and drink stalls showcasing the best of Cornwall
- Live music from 11am until 9pm each day
- Beachside bars and street food vendors
- Family-friendly entertainment and activities
The relaxed beach atmosphere makes it easy to spend the entire day soaking up the entertainment while enjoying delicious local produce.
Perfect for Families
The festival is not just for food lovers — it is also a fantastic family event. The Little Nippers Green offers activities designed especially for children from 10am until 5pm, including fun circus skills workshops and interactive entertainment to keep younger visitors busy throughout the day.
It is the ideal opportunity for families to enjoy a relaxed seaside festival together while making unforgettable memories.
Experience the Best of St Ives
The St Ives Food and Drink Festival perfectly captures everything people love about Cornwall — amazing food, local culture, live music, friendly people, and breathtaking coastal scenery.
With its unbeatable location on Porthminster Beach, free entry, and lively atmosphere, it is easy to see why this festival has become one of Cornwall’s most popular annual events.
If you are in Cornwall this weekend 15th – 17th May 2026, make sure the St Ives Food Festival is on your itinerary. Whether you visit for a few hours or spend the whole weekend enjoying the festivities, it is an experience you will not want to miss.