What to Expect at Wakefield Rhubarb Festival 2025: Fun for the Whole Family!

Get ready, foodies and fun-lovers—Wakefield’s Rhubarb Festival is making a grand return from 21–23 February 2025. It’s a weekend packed with tasty treats, live music, and fun activities for all ages, celebrating the city’s iconic pink vegetable in style. Whether you’re a foodie, a music fan, or just looking for a great day out, there’s something here for everyone.

Let’s break down what makes this festival such a must-visit.

A foodie’s paradise: Over 50 local stalls

If you love exploring new flavours, this festival is the place to be. The bustling food and drink market will host over 50 chalets, offering everything from locally made delicacies to regional favourites. Whether you fancy sweet, savoury, or something in between, you’ll find it here.

And there’s more! You’ll also spot some culinary heavyweights showing off their skills. Wakefield’s very own Karen Wright, alongside TV chef Sam Nixon and award-winning chef Rachel Green, will be hosting live cooking demonstrations. Expect to pick up handy tips, new recipes, and maybe even some inspiration to jazz up your next dinner party.

Fun for families: Workshops and street entertainment

This isn’t just for the adults—families are in for a treat too. From free workshops to interactive cooking demos, there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained. Plus, the streets will be buzzing with live entertainment from colourful characters like Ruby Rhubarb, Ruby & Barb, and the magical Rhubarb Fairy. It’s the kind of vibrant atmosphere that makes you want to grab your phone and snap some pictures for the memory books.

Music and drinks: The Rhu-Bar is the place to be

For those who love a good tune, live music will take over the Rhu-Bar all weekend long, courtesy of Wakefield Music Collective. You can enjoy performances by local pop, folk, and rock artists while sipping on rhubarb-themed cocktails or mocktails.

Rhubarb-inspired menus around the city

Feeling adventurous? The Rhubarb Food & Drink Trail, in partnership with Wakefield BID, will have restaurants and bars across the city serving creative rhubarb-themed food and drinks. Whether it’s a tangy rhubarb crumble or a zingy rhubarb gin, you’ll get a true taste of Wakefield’s heritage.

Mark your calendar!

Cllr Hannah Appleyard, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, and Sport, sums it up perfectly:

“Our famous Rhubarb Festival is a fabulous celebration of our famous pink vegetable. We’re all set for another wonderful weekend, so put the date in your diary and come and be part of the celebrations.”

This is one of those events that locals and visitors alike look forward to every year. So why not grab your friends, pack up the family, or even treat yourself to a solo day out? 21–23 February 2025 is just around the corner, and Wakefield will be buzzing.

Find out more

Want to plan your weekend? Head to Wakefield Rhubarb Festival’s official page for all the details.

See you there—because, honestly, who can resist a festival dedicated to rhubarb?