If you happen to be holidaying in the New Forest or passing through Portsmouth on your way to the Isle of Wight during the month of July, be sure to stop at some of the Hampshire Food Festival events that are taking place countywide. This month long calendar celebrates the county’s thriving local food and produce scene. Wherever you find yourself in Hampshire, you’ll find a food event near you.
Below are just a few highlights of the many fairs, tastings, and workshops taking place to mark 2018’s Hampshire Food Festival. A full calendar can be found here.
Jamming Sessions. Various dates. Take a class with the Hampshire Jam and Chutney Company and learn how to make your own jams, chutneys, and marmalades. Fees vary from £40 to £70 but all the equipment is provided. You’ll pick up tips from the experts and take home your own handmade results.
Chocolate Demonstrations and Tastings. 12 July. Watch some expert chocolatiers and sample their wares at Chocolate Craft in Alresford. The event is free of charge (ages 8 and over only) and runs from 10am to 4pm. Decorate your own chocolate lolly for an additional fee.
61st Curdridge Country Show. 14 July. Vintage cars, Morris Dancing, a Samba band, birds of prey demonstrations, a dog show, ferret racing… the list of events goes on and on for this country show which has free parking and costs just £13 for a family admission! But of course we’re interested in the food – you’ll find cream teas, cider and wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and lots of samples to try.
Southampton Cocktail Week. 16-22 July. Venues around the city will be hosting masterclasses to teach about you spirits and the art of cocktail-making. Plus find great discounts and tastings. Wristbands cost just £10 and give access to deals throughout the week.
Vineyards of Hampshire Wine Festival. 22 July. This year’s annual wine festival will be held at Raimes Vineyards. Sample more than a dozen wines from the county’s seven vineyards. Also take a guided tour and a masterclass. Workshop topics include Wine and Chocolate Tasting; Food and Wine Pairings; Growing a Vine in Your Garden; and Behind the Bubbles. Admission to the festival is £12 per person. Tickets to the workshops are £10 per person. Free on-site parking is available. Buses are also being provided from WInchester and Petersfield.
The New Forest and Hampshire County Show. 24-26 July. This three-day event in Brocklehurst is ranked one fo the top ten county shows in the country. Browse the 30 acres of livestock competitions and crafts exhibitions while sampling some of the region’s finest produce. Children get in for free. Buy adult tickets online (at a discounted rate) or at the entry gate on the day.
