A much-loved and popular free food and arts festival is set to return to Dorset next month.
The Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival returns to Christchurch on Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14, providing a wide range of activities for all ages for a 'deliciously unforgettable weekend packed with incredible food, drink and entertainment'.
Sponsored by Meadens Omoda Jaecoo, the event aims to raise funds for Macmillian Caring Locally and its 'Hospice at Home' initiative.
The festival, located on the Highcliffe high street and recreation ground, will feature a variety of pop-up food stalls, artisan markets, cookery demonstrations, as well as craft and cocktail bars.
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Adam Sofianos, chair of Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council, said: "Highcliffe & Walkford Parish Council is proud to continue its support of this amazing festival.
"It's a genuine community event: free to enter and explore, promoting local businesses, and showcasing our great village.
"Mary and the team have done a fantastic job yet again - please come along and bring your appetites."
Music enthusiasts will not miss out on the event's lively atmosphere as live music will echo from three different stages around the venue.
The festival will also roll out a red carpet for younger attendees with activities ranging from a circus school, Chefs on Stilts, Grow Your Own, a bubbleologist, biscuit-icing courses, among others.
The festival is proudly hosting one of the south's favourite arts and crafts events, curated by the Little Craft Shack.
Attendees can explore the creative displays of local artists and makers, offering everything from gifts and artwork to home décor, jewellery, and ceramics.
The culinary weekend presents an opportunity to witness skilled chefs perform in Mary's Kitchen, sponsored by Portman Stone.
Chefs set to grace the event include Bake Off star Nelly Ghaffar, Masterchef champion Mat Follas, James and Erika Golding, along with award-winning chefs Alex Aitken and Colin Nash.
Visitors can experience the festival between 10am to 5pm on both days.
It is to be noted that Highcliffe High Street will be closed to through traffic, and a diversion will be in place.
For those using public transport, Morebus numbers 81 and 82 will operate every 30 minutes during the day, from Lymington to Bournemouth.
Car parking will be available at Highcliffe Cliff Top or Wortley Road car park.
Festival-goers are encouraged to follow updates on the festival's social media pages or at the festival's website.
