The Sugar & Spice Festival in Port Sunlight has been postponed from its original date of Saturday, October 4, to Saturday, November 1. This change is due to safety concerns over severe weather conditions expected from Storm Amy. The popular event, which celebrates food and drink, will still offer free entry and a wide range of activities for visitors.
Key Takeaways
- Sugar & Spice Festival moved to Saturday, November 1, 2024.
- Rescheduled from October 4 due to Storm Amy.
- Event runs from 11am to 4pm at Diamond Park.
- Over 40 food and drink stalls will be present.
- New additions include a wellbeing area and a Foodie Tour.
Festival Date Change Announced
The Port Sunlight Village Trust, in collaboration with The Chocolate Cellar, confirmed the new date for the Sugar & Spice Festival. The event will now take place on Saturday, November 1, from 11am to 4pm. This decision was made to ensure the safety of attendees, vendors, and performers.
The festival will be held at the picturesque Diamond landscaped park, situated directly opposite the Port Sunlight Museum. This central location offers easy access for both local residents and visitors traveling from further afield.
Charlene Davies, Learning and Audience Development Manager at Port Sunlight Village Trust, stated: “We’ve been anxiously watching the weather updates all week, but this weekend’s weather forecast caused by Storm Amy would put our visitors, vendors and performers at risk. We hope everyone will be able to join us on Saturday, November 1 instead for an unmissable day out to celebrate our local makers, enjoy great food and drink, and admire Port Sunlight’s stunning autumn colours.”
A World of Flavors and Local Delights
Entry to the Sugar & Spice Festival remains completely free for all visitors. The event will feature more than 40 stalls, offering a diverse selection of food and drink from around the world. Attendees can expect a variety of treats, including:
- Indulgent chocolates
- Homemade honey products
- Authentic spiced blends
- Freshly baked breads
- Other unique culinary discoveries
The festival aims to cater to all tastes, encouraging visitors to explore new flavors and support local producers. This focus on variety ensures there is something for every palate.
Festival Facts
- Over 40 stalls: Offering a wide range of global and local food items.
- Free entry: No admission fee to access the main festival area.
- Location: Diamond landscaped park, opposite Port Sunlight Museum.
Entertainment and Wellbeing Additions
Beyond the food stalls, the festival will provide family-friendly entertainment throughout the day. Live performances are scheduled from groups such as the Sing The Musicals Choir and the Port Sunlight Ukulele Group. These performances add a vibrant atmosphere to the event.
A new addition for this year is a dedicated wellbeing area. This section will feature taster sessions for yoga and sound baths, provided by Moonbeam Yoga and Energy Works Wirral. This offers a moment of relaxation amidst the bustling festival environment.
Family Activities and Village Exploration
Families are invited to participate in an autumn-themed family trail. This activity encourages exploration of the village to find hidden acorns. Participants who successfully complete the trail can claim a prize. Tickets for the autumn trail are £6 each.
Pre-booking for the trail is essential due to limited numbers. Families are advised to book early to secure their spot and avoid disappointment. This trail provides an interactive way for children and adults to engage with the unique surroundings of Port Sunlight.
Port Sunlight Village Trust
The Port Sunlight Village Trust is a charitable organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the unique heritage of Port Sunlight. It manages the village's historic buildings, landscapes, and cultural assets, ensuring their long-term sustainability and public enjoyment. The Trust regularly organizes events to engage the community and attract visitors.
New Foodie Tour Explores Village History
Another new feature for this year's festival is a special Port Sunlight Foodie Tour. This guided tour offers insights into the village's culinary history, exploring stories of food and drink from the early 1900s.
A highlight of the tour includes the opportunity to sample the recently rediscovered Port Sunlight Bun. This historic pudding was an early attempt to create a distinctive local dessert, aiming to rival the well-known Eccles cake. The tour provides a unique blend of history and taste for food enthusiasts.
Travel and Parking Information
Visitors planning to attend the festival have several travel options:
- Public Transport: Merseyrail network is highly recommended. Port Sunlight and Bebington stations are both approximately a five-minute walk from the Diamond park.
- Free Parking: Available opposite Port Sunlight Museum and on surrounding streets. Visitors are asked to park considerately for residents.
- Additional Parking: Located on the field opposite Christ Church (at the corner of Church Drive and The Causeway).
- Accessible Parking: Blue Badge holders can use the car park at Leverhulme Hotel.
Organizers encourage the use of public transport to minimize congestion and support sustainable travel.
For more information about the Sugar & Spice Festival and to book tickets for the autumn trail, visitors can refer to the official Port Sunlight Village Trust website.