Thousands of smiling people packed out Maryport’s harbourside when Taste Cumbria’s Taste of the Sea festival hit the town again last weekend (Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 August).
Now in its fourth year, it was in a new location down by the Marina where visitors enjoyed shopping at 50 stalls in the Producers’ Market, hot food stands, live music, expert demos and lots of family fun.
There was more fish and seafood on offer than ever before with the Oyster Bar selling at a rate of almost one a minute on the Saturday, and 40-strong queues of people waiting to buy produce straight from the Chelaris fishing boat. The food traders got in on the fun too with prawns on pizzas and in curries, hot lobster, and more.
For the first time, traders from the TEG entrepreneurs’ markets came along, selling art, gifts and more. Elsewhere in town, the Shipping Brow Gallery opened for a free weekend, while The Settlement and Redby Coffee showcased the work of dozens of artists in two exhibitions. Sticking with the creative theme, there was an Art Trail to take visitors around town and visit the independent businesses.
The entire festival’s entertainment is free though there were two ticketed events too. A Fish & Fizz Supper at Her Citi café and madcap Bingo Loco at Grasslot Sports Club.
The Taste Cumbria events are organised by Cumberland Council.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“This year’s Taste of the Sea festival was a triumph. It was fantastic to see so many happy smiling people, in the sunshine, in the heart of this lovely town.
“Thank you to all our sponsors and supporters, and to the visitors, traders, Maryport businesses and organisations, and the Council’s hardworking event team, for creating another amazing festival.
“Cumberland Council is managing the £12 million of investment currently going into Maryport and events like this really showcase everything that puts this brilliant seaside town on the map.”
Taste of the Sea’s main sponsor is Maryport Town Council, and its supporters are Vici, Grants Oaked Smoked, Thomas Armstrong Construction, Milburns Solicitors and Maryport Business Group.
For the latest information on all the Taste Cumbria events go to www.visitallerdale.co.uk/taste-cumbria-home