Diners have been giving their verdict on the 2021 Southport Food and Drink Festival.
People praised the variety of food outlets available, serving cuisines from around the world.
The warm weather helped to attract large crowds over Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with many outlets running out of food by late afternoon due to huge demand. Great live music added to the atmosphere.
Families enjoyed entertainment in the children’s marquee, shows from Mr Stix, Babyballet and others, stories from Little Lamb Tales, and a range of bouncy castles, inflatables and zorbs from Bouncy Castle Parade. The Festival was organised by Sefton Council’s Tourism team.
Speaking on the Stand Up For Southport Facebook group, Col Clarkson said: “How nice was that food and drink festival today? Was great to see so many people out enjoying themselves like that after the 18 months we’ve all had.
“Saw a few Dog’s struggling in the midday heat mind you. But thankfully most owners were getting them under trees into the shade.
“Lovely scenes though.”
Sharon Partington said: “Great event with plenty of food stalls in the outdoors with good live music.”
Tracy Buxton said: “Very enjoyable but I’d love to see more locally grown produce – the Bootle honey was lovely!”
Amanda Hanlon said: “Really enjoyed it, laid out well so it didn’t feel too crowded. Good food and fun stuff to do for the kids.”
Graham Webster said: “Went this morning – quiet till around 12, and then it went mad busy – long queues at all the food sellers and way too little seating ! But all in all it was a very enjoyable five hour visit!”
Sheila Shearin said: “Had a fabulous afternoon. Well done Southport.”
Linda Clarke said: “Had a lovely time today, great Lebanese food, rhubarb cider which was amazing and fantastic churros.”
Caitlin Halfpenny said: “Go early – we went for 4.30 and places were already sold out and shutting! Enjoyed the cocktails, BBQ Street food and Greek place.”
Lauren Pierce said: “Really lovely afternoon, the queues were long but expected as everyone is enjoying themselves. Only negative, needs waaaay more seating. Just glad the grass wasn’t wet. But overall it was just lovely being there and bonus this year as I wasn’t working the F&D festival (past years been working on the bar!)”
Hayley Rose Warlow said: “Loved it but would have loved a vegan / vegetarian van with more options. Great day and atmosphere though.”
Speaking on the Southport Food and Drink Festival Facebook page, Rhian Loffarelli said: “It was great to see it back and the weather was very good. Fab food and drink & stalls.”
Bernie Kissane said: “We had a fab time Saturday and Sunday. Great to see such lovely weather and everyone having a nice time.”
Amanda Bond said: “It was great to come back, I hope next year it’s at its usual time. It’s like our start of summer fun.”
Amanda Jones said: “Another great event, very very well organised. Thank you so much! I really can imagine the work going on in the background to make it so successful. It’s not just the stalls but the toilets, entertainment, cleaning up. Top job everyone and the children’s entertainer was a massive hit with our little boy.”
A Southport Food and Drink Festival spokesperson said: “We have LOVED being back
We have LOVED seeing our park full again.
“But most of all we have LOVED all of the delicious food and drink this weekend.
“Thank you for coming, enjoying and supporting. It was a good weekend.
“See you in 2022.”
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