Welcome to Yorkshire
News • September 1st, 2026
|The popular Rhubarb Festival is set to return to Wakefield City Centre from Friday 19th February to Sunday 21st February 2027. This beloved event highlights the region's unique connection to rhubarb, a plant celebrated for its tart flavour and culinary versatility. With applications now open for traders and vendors, the festival promises to be a delightful experience for food lovers and families alike.
What To Expect At The Festival
The Rhubarb Festival is a vibrant three-day celebration that showcases everything rhubarb-related. Attendees can look forward to:
Live Cookery Demonstrations: Watch talented chefs whip up delicious dishes using rhubarb, offering inspiration for home cooks.
Speciality Market: Explore a wide range of stalls featuring local produce, artisan foods, and unique rhubarb-themed products.
Street Food: Enjoy a variety of tasty street food options that will surely satisfy any appetite.
Entertainment and Fringe Activities: There will be fun activities and performances throughout the festival to keep everyone entertained.
This festival is not just about eating; it’s also about learning and celebrating a local tradition that has become a point of pride for the community. The event brings people together, fostering a sense of belonging and appreciation for local produce.
Trader Applications Now Open
For those interested in being a part of this exciting event, applications for traders are currently open. The festival is seeking various vendors, including:
Food & Drinks Traders
Food & Drink Vendors (excluding alcohol provision)
Bar Operators
Charity & Community Groups
All applications must be submitted by Sunday 11th October 2026 at 11:45pm. This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses and groups to showcase their products to a wide audience and engage with the community.
Why Rhubarb Matters to Wakefield
Rhubarb is more than just a fruit; it holds a special place in the heart of Wakefield. The area is famous for producing some of the best rhubarb in the UK, often referred to as "the rhubarb triangle". This triangle, formed by Wakefield, Leeds, and Bradford, is known for its unique growing conditions, which produce rhubarb with a distinct flavour and quality.
Celebrating this local produce through the festival not only highlights its importance in the culinary world but also boosts the local economy and supports farmers and businesses in the area. The Rhubarb Festival has become a key event in the national food and drink calendar, attracting visitors from across the country.
Join The Celebration
The Rhubarb Festival is a wonderful opportunity for families, food enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the rich culinary culture of Yorkshire. With a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and engaging activities, it’s an event not to be missed.
Whether attending as a visitor or participating as a trader, the festival promises to be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. With the festival fast approaching, excitement is already building in the community.
