The largest and longest-running Welsh food festival is hosting another Christmas-themed fair, as Jake Young looks ahead to what’s on offer.
Still stocking up for Christmas and preparing festivities? If you’re not sure where to even begin, look no further, as the annual Abergavenny Christmas Fair has you covered. The acclaimed festival was started by two local farmers in 1999 to put confidence back into British produce; it now attracts approximately 30,000 visitors a year, alongside top food celebrities such as Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Jamie Oliver and Monica Galetti, to name a few. This year they have Masterchef quarter-finalist Inman Nathoo to tell you about how to make the most of your Christmas left overs, and Chef Tommy Heaney cooking up a showcase festive feast that has our mouths watering just thinking about it.
Still not convinced this is the Christmas market to visit this year? Perhaps the 85 stall pavilions set up by numerous business and locals alike to share and experience south Wales’s food culture can persuade you, which this year includes such favourites as Bee Welsh Honey, Gower Cottage Brownies, Welsh Coffee Roasters and Eccentric Gin. Relax: it’s not all look but don’t touch – jump into the festivities with the numerous tasting workshops based around Christmas chocolate, food pairings, and matching wine or cocktails to your Christmas meal – how’s that for Christmas spirit?
There’s also something for the kids so they aren’t left out. Not only do they go free but there’s also a festive trail of clues to find robins around the town, with plenty of surprises to be had. If the kids fancy a bit of a sing then there is an opportunity to join in with the carols as you accompany the Borough Brass Band through the town, with mince pies as a reward. Now it wouldn’t be much of a Christmas market without Santa and some reindeer, so there’s a chance to help the jolly fellow make some trinkets and decoratives to hang up on your tree.
Whether it be stocking up for a great-tasting Christmas, finding those perfect gifts, or simply having a great day this December, Abergavenny Christmas Fair is the place to be. With offerings for all the family, this is a recipe for a merry Christmas.
The Market Hall, Upper Brewery Yard and the Priory. Abergavenny. Sunday 10 December. Admission: £5 per adult, children go free – Expert Demonstrations costing extra. Info: 01873 851643 / http://www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com/