The much-loved St Ives Food & Drink Festival is set to return from 15–17 May 2026, bringing three unforgettable days of food, drink and live entertainment to the golden sands of Porthminster Beach in St Ives.
Recognised as the UK’s only food and drink festival on the beach, the event is free to attend and offers a vibrant celebration of Cornwall’s culinary scene, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
At the heart of the festival are the ever-popular Chef’s Fire Pit demonstrations, where leading chefs cook over open flames, over an Asado firepit, in a series of dynamic and ingredient-led showcases. These live demos remain one of the festival’s standout attractions, offering audiences a rare chance to get up close to top culinary talent in a very special coastal setting.
New for 2026 is an exciting Chef’s Table food and drink masterclass venue, created in collaboration with Sharp’s Brewing Co. This dedicated space is set to host ticketed intimate, hands-on experiences, giving festivalgoers the opportunity to learn directly from top experts, chefs and producers in a relaxed, interactive environment. Highlights include Tiny Talks with Rachel Gaunt and guests exploring food, health and wellbeing, plus a fermenting masterclass with Newlyn Fermentary, the Sharp’s beer Quiz and a one-time only private podcast with leading chefs Andi Tuck, Ben Palmer and Guy Owen – plus lots more.
Music lovers can enjoy the Beach Stage, delivering three full days of free live music against the backdrop of the Cornish coastline. From laid-back daytime sessions to sunset sounds, the programme includes local favourites Maisy Grace, Caro, Robi Mitch Duo and the Bailey Tomkinson Duo. On Sunday the St Ives Guildhall takeover the stage with live music from The Regalos, Seamus McKenna and Daisy Mae amongst others.
The festival also shines a spotlight on local makers through its artisan market created in partnership with Cornwall Shop Small, alongside a bustling food village packed with delicious street food, showcasing the very best of regional produce and flavours.
Families are firmly at the centre of this year’s event, with the introduction of Little Nippers Green – a brand-new children’s area featuring free creative workshops – such as face painting, sensory play, food themed music classes, circus skills and cooking activities designed to inspire the next generation of food lovers.
Adding to the celebrations, Porthminster Beach Cafe marks it’s 35th anniversary during the festival with a special champagne tasting menu on the Saturday evening, offering a unique opportunity for guests to enjoy an exclusive dining experience as part of the weekend’s festivities.
A festival spokesperson said: “St Ives Food & Drink Festival is all about celebrating Cornwall’s incredible food and drink in one of the most spectacular settings in the UK. For 2026, we’re excited to introduce new experiences like the Chef’s Table masterclasses and Little Nippers Green while continuing to build on favourites like the Fire Pit demos, live music and showcasing Cornwall’s incredible culinary talent. Whether you’re coming for the food, the music or a great day out with family and friends, there’s something for everyone on the beach.”
The St Ives Food & Drink Festival is the UK’s only food and drink festival on a beach, and combined with its relaxed atmosphere, and interesting line-up makes it a must-visit in Cornwall’s events calendar.
For more information, to see the full programme and book masterclass tickets please visit: stivesfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk
