Welcome to Yorkshire
Published on July 14th, 2026
•Sheffield is set to brew excitement this autumn with the launch of Sip Fest, a brand-new coffee festival that promises to celebrate the city’s vibrant coffee and café culture. The festival will run from Monday, 28 September to Sunday, 4 October 2026, featuring a week of free events across more than 40 local coffee shops, cafés, bars, and roasteries. This initiative aims to support independent businesses and showcase the best of Sheffield’s coffee scene.
Festival Highlights
Sip Fest will kick off with a citywide fringe, allowing coffee enthusiasts to explore various venues and discover new local delights. The festival will culminate in a major weekend event at Trafalgar Warehouse, which includes:
Free Industry Party: On Friday, 2 October, there will be a special gathering for those working in coffee, hospitality, and related fields.
Ticketed Public Event: On Saturday, 3 October, attendees can enjoy a full day of activities, featuring more than 30 stalls, talks, tastings, and even Sheffield’s biggest latte art competition.
Getting Involved
Early bird tickets for the Saturday event are currently available for just £5 at sipcoffeefestival.com. This event caters to a wide audience, from serious coffee lovers to casual drinkers, and aims to provide a fun, alcohol-free social experience for everyone, including families and students.
Supporting Local Businesses
The festival is the brainchild of local coffee experts Matt Cottrill, founder of Steam Yard and Corner Store, and Neil Midgley of Motore Cafe. They have teamed up with local illustrator Molly Kirk to bring this exciting event to life. The aim is to highlight Sheffield’s independent coffee scene, which has gained recognition in speciality coffee guides and beyond.
“Sheffield has one of the most exciting independent coffee scenes in the country, and we want to showcase this to the city and beyond,” said Cottrill. “*Sip Fest* is about celebrating the places, people, and energy that make Sheffield’s coffee culture unique.”
What to Expect
Throughout the week, attendees can expect a variety of activities and experiences that highlight the artistry and craftsmanship behind coffee. From tastings to workshops and coffee runs, the festival will feature:
Free events at over 40 locations
Talks and demonstrations from industry experts
Street food traders offering delicious bites
Live DJs to keep the atmosphere lively
Join the Celebration
In addition to the main events at Trafalgar Warehouse, the festival encourages participation from local cafés, roasteries, and coffee makers. They are invited to join the fringe programme or take part in the main festival, helping to create a diverse and engaging experience for all visitors.
Those interested in getting involved can reach out via email at hello@sipcoffeefestival.com.
Why It Matters
Sip Fest is more than just a celebration of coffee; it’s a chance to support local businesses and strengthen community ties. Cafés in Sheffield have become important social hubs, where people gather to work, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a good cup of coffee. By promoting these venues, Sip Fest aims to foster a sense of community and encourage people to explore the rich tapestry of Sheffield’s coffee culture.
As the festival approaches, excitement is brewing among local coffee lovers and businesses alike. With its focus on inclusivity and community spirit, Sip Fest is poised to become an annual highlight in Sheffield's cultural calendar.