4th May to 7th May 2018
Ely is preparing itself once again for its four day extravaganza to celebrate the origins of the humble eel. Organised by the Visit Ely team, Ely’s Eel Festival Weekend runs from 4th to 7th May. This year, as always, we see the return of the Eel Food Safari which runs all weekend where a selection of local food outlets provide special dishes inspired by the eel theme.
The Eel Parade kicks off Saturday’s Eel Day when the festival celebrates 15 years, with a colourful array of eels processing through Ely’s High Street, down to the river where a whole host of eel related activities take place. Special highlights include the British Town Criers’ Championships and the World Eel Throwing Competition (no eels will be harmed in this competition, just stuffed toys!). Can you beat the World Record of over 17 metres? The full programme of arena events includes music, dancing, a living history encampment and a street food scene (including eels!).
Rounding up the weekend is the ever popular two day Food and Drink Festival now in its fifth year. Over 75 artisan and specialist food and drink traders will be showcasing their wares. There will be an amazing Street Food Scene, comprising of a range of culinary delights which will tantalise your taste buds with the unusual, yet exquisitely crafted combinations.
The festival will also have a beer tent and cocktail bar with some easy listening, live music to enjoy. Back on St Mary’s Green is the Kitchen Pantry with a selection of goodies to help stock your pantry, some handy gadgets and beautiful kitchenware along with a seating area and some scrumptious light bites.
This year Ely Eel Festival welcomes the celebrity haute cuisine teacher, Rosemary Shrager and the original TV Chef, Brian Turner into the fabulous Cookery Theatre – they will be demonstrating a variety of dishes alongside some of the city’s much loved local chefs.
Visitors will also have the chance to personally meet and greet the celebrity chefs for a Q&A hour plus book signings at the “In Conversation With” sessions which will be held at Oliver Cromwell’s House. Check out the website for booking details.
All in all, Ely will make the perfect place for a Spring Bank Holiday visit. Click here for the full Ely Eel Festival programme
