Sizzling sausages, mighty meats and vicarious veg (we struggled with that last one). Cumbria’s food festivals are a celebration of local and international produce alike, and a visit to one of these popular events will open your eyes to the possibilities of the county’s food offering.

We’re often there, of course, so watch out for our stall when you visit and come and say hi.

Taste Cumbria

The biggest and best-known food festival in Cumbria, Taste Cumbria is now a firm favourite in our foodie calendar. First launched to boost the economy after devastating floods in Cockermouth, the festival now hosts multiple events throughout the year, including:

• Taste Wigton: April
• Taste of the Sea, Maryport: August
• Taste Cumbria, Cockermouth: September
• Taste Carlisle: November
• Taste Christmas, Cockermouth: December

Dalemain World Marmalade Awards & Festival

For something so quirky and niche, the Dalemain World Marmalade Awards & Festival is unbelievably popular, with visitors travelling across the world to attend and compete. As you’ll probably guess from its name, the festival celebrates all things marmalade. You’ll find traditional flavours such as Seville orange alongside more unique creations like grapefruit and gin.

There’s also the all-important competition to find the best marmalade in the world, a hotly-contested battle that has us all on tenterhooks!

The Dalemain Marmalade Festival takes place in April each year.

Sausage Festival

The annual Sausage Festival at Muncaster Castle in Ravenglass is a must-visit on any foodie’s calendar. In true Muncaster style, this family-friendly food festival is great fun, with lots of activities taking place around the stalls, and even vegan sausages for those who don’t eat meat. Visitors can sample the sausages on offer and vote for their favourite to be crowned Sausage Champion.

The Sausage Festival takes place in May.

Cumbria Vegan Festival

This small festival is a great one if you don’t eat meat. Raising money for animal rescues, it’s a celebration of food without animal products. You’ll find an eclectic mix of produce to try in situ or when you get back home. Perhaps you’ll discover some great new meals!

The Cumbria Vegan Festival takes place in June.

Country Shows

Throughout the summer, the festival calendar is full of fantastic country shows. As a county that has a long-standing and important history of farming, it’s no wonder that there are so many country shows attended by so many people. You’ll find everything you could expect – from children’s entertainment to animal competitions – as well as produce from local farms and communities. Some of the biggest and best include:

• Cartmel Show – August
• Ennerdale Show – August
• Gosforth Show – August
• Keswick Show – August
• Eskdale Show – September
• Westmorland Show – September
• Wasdale Head Show – October

Can’t wait until the next show? Then browse our online shop or visit us in Pooley Bridge for a great Cumbrian selection.