WIMBORNE’s very own food and drink festival is to return to the town for a second year.

The popular event, organised by Wimborne Business Improvement District (BID) is the place to be to discover all the very best and hidden secrets that Wimborne’s culinary businesses have to offer.

This year’s event will take place on Saturday, September 20 at Willow Walk near Waitrose and East Street.

This year will also include a Dorset Farmers Market offering a variety of delicious regional produce in the town square.

The Wimborne Food Festival is a celebration of all the town offers in food and drink. Last year, thousands of people enjoyed tastings, talks and demonstrations, alfresco dining and live music around the town.

Alongside Wimborne BID, the event is generously sponsored again by independent electrical retailer Dacombes of Wimborne.

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Matt Renaut, managing director of Dacombes of Wimborne said: “This new festival was a great success last year with many local businesses getting involved.

“Footfall increase in the town was huge and some businesses experienced their strongest trading Saturday that year.”

Ione Crossley, BID Director and co-owner of independent business Salamander Cookshop said: “In 2024, the first Wimborne Food Festival celebrated the outstanding range of independent local food and drink businesses in our lovely market town, and their local suppliers.

“This year we hope to see the festival grow and continue to promote Wimborne as a place to visit and enjoy.”

A working party, which includes owners of local food businesses, has been established.

Organisers are also working with community food groups, Wimborne Community Garden and the Friendly Food Club.

Mark Walter and Dean Hewitson from the Butchers Dog at last year’s festival Picture: Wimborne BID

There will be more activities for children to enjoy at this year’s festival.

Wimborne BID manager Tammy Sleet said: “This year we want to grow the festival and still keep true to its ethos.

“It’s first and foremost about Wimborne’s delicious food and drinks businesses. It’s Wimborne itself that’s on the menu!

“We want this festival to stay local and benefit the bottom line of Wimborne traders.”

Those interested in being part of Wimborne Food Festival as a stallholder, a speaker, or offering a cooking demonstration or competition are asked to contact Wimborne BID.

Email Tammy Sleet at office@wimborne.info for more information.