Food market and festival to take over historic Campfield building

A food-themed market and mini festival is set to take over Manchester’s historic Campfield building this weekend.

The Weekender is described as a ‘one-of-a-kind artisanal festival’, and returns to the St John’s venue for its second instalment following a sell-out debut edition.

Organisers GRUB and Department say this weekend’s event will be 50% bigger to accommodate the anticipated crowds, and will play host to a curated market with more than 40 traders, music and more.

A packed foodie lineup of incredible chefs and bakers from across the region includes Baby Mayhem, Divine Dumplings, Sticky Fingers, Pez Tacos, Palette Bakery, Vanoffee, Above and Beyond Burger.

The Northern Tango Academy will also be joining from the Instituto Cervantes to deliver free tango demonstrations.

Alongside the fantastic market offering visitors will be enjoying DJs throughout the day selected by award winning broadcaster Reform Radio, entertainment, and a DJ set from Matty White.

“We were absolutely blown away by the thousands of people who turned up for the first Weekender” says Jason Bailey, co-founder of GRUB “It’s fantastic to see so many Mancunians getting to see this amazing part of Manchester’s history then at the same time support local businesses and have a lovely time with their friends and family. This event is absolutely magic and we can’t wait to welcome everyone once again”.

The event is free entry and welcomes all. Doors will be open between 10am – 4pm on Sat 26 Jul, with a schedule of events and workshop tickets available here. The Weekender will also return to Campfield Sat 30 Aug with new events, activities and traders.