The annual Foodies Festival will return to Oxford for its 21st edition, with South Park hosting the event across the August Bank Holiday weekend from August 29 to 31.
The celebration of culinary arts and musical entertainment has earned recognition as one of Britain’s premier festivals, having received consecutive endorsement from The Independent over the past two years.
Musical entertainment will feature performances from several notable acts.
Boyzlife, the collaboration between Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden originally formed from members of Boyzone and Westlife, has been confirmed for the lineup.
Pop Idol contestant Gareth Gates will present his Boyband in the Park touring show at the event.
The 1990s pop quartet B*Witched rounds out the announced musical performers.
The culinary programme includes live demonstrations from prominent figures in the food industry.
Confirmed chefs include recent competition winners and established television personalities.
Harry Maguire, crowned MasterChef champion in 2025, has been announced alongside his fellow finalist Sam Kaeokon.
Both competitors have recently relocated to the region.
Additional culinary talent features Ashleigh Farrand, head chef at the Kingham Plough and previously featured on Great British Menu, and Andrew Carr, head chef at The Yurt, a restaurant listed in the Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand distinction.
Demonstrations will take place across multiple stages.
The Chefs Theatre will showcase signature recipes from television personalities, highlighting seasonal local ingredients.
The Cake and Desserts Theatre will present performances from patisserie specialists and accomplished bakers.
Competition elements include the return of the festival’s established chilli-eating challenge, now expanded to include the Ultimate Hot Wings Challenge.
A fresh addition for 2026 features a competitive cook-off format under the Ready, Steady, Cook concept, incorporating audience participation.
The Drinks Theatre will offer educational sessions covering Champagne, beer, cider, cocktails and wine, with expertise provided by specialists connected to major broadcasters including ITV, BBC and Channel 4.
Family provisions include dedicated children’s cookery workshops and, for 2026, an interactive Foodies Treasure Hunt Trail designed for younger visitors.
Commercial offerings encompass a Shopping Village presenting current food trends, an Artisan Market where regional producers offer samples of their products, and a Feasting Tent serving international cuisine.
The Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e do Porto will maintain its presence at the Oxford event, providing opportunities for attendees to sample various Port styles and explore contemporary serving suggestions for the Portuguese fortified wine.