More than 7,000 people flocked to Caerphilly town centre for this year’s Caerphilly Food and Drink Festival, marking the busiest footfall of 2026 so far.
The popular event, held on Saturday April 18, transformed the town into a lively hub of food, entertainment and family-friendly activities, attracting visitors from across the region.
Organised by Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Events Team, the festival was the fourth major event of the year and drew in families, couples and groups, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the town.
Visitors were able to explore a wide range of stalls offering high-quality food and drink, alongside cookery demonstrations and interactive workshops. There were also plenty of free activities for all ages, including craft sessions and funfair rides.
Adding to the atmosphere, themed street theatre brought a playful twist to the day, with a roaming giant frankfurter, quirky kitchen gadget sellers and humorous trolley waitresses entertaining crowds across the town centre.
The event plays an important role in boosting footfall and supporting local businesses, helping to raise the profile of Caerphilly and encourage repeat visits.
So far this year, four major events across the county borough, including The Big Welsh Festival, Bargoed Spring Fair, Ystrad Mynach Food, Drink and Music Festival and the Caerphilly Food and Drink Festival, have attracted more than 18,500 visitors combined.
Looking ahead, more events are planned, including the Bryn Meadows Caerphilly 10K race on Sunday May 10 and the Bargoed May Fair on Saturday May 9.
Local businesses and traders praised the success of the festival and the impact it had on trade.
Eleri’s Welsh Cakes said:
“WE DID IT… RECORD BREAKING WELSHCAKE SALES! Caerphilly Food Festival, you were amazing! Our nerves about overstocking disappeared when we saw how many of you came to support us. A massive thank you to all our customers and to Caerphilly Council for an unforgettable event.”
Sarah Harris-Clint, Operator at Ffos Caerffili, said:
“It was our busiest day of the year so far at Ffos Caerffili. It was fantastic to see so many local people and visitors in the town enjoying and supporting small businesses. The atmosphere was brilliant, we saw lots of smiles, singing, cheering and of course eating and drinking! Some of the traders at Ffos Caerffili had their best trading day since they started their business. An amazing day to showcase Caerphilly and a day to feel proud being part of it.”
Angharad Underwood, The Cookalong Clwb and The Preservation Society, added:
“Thank you so much for all of your support and an incredible pitch with brilliant facilities, the festival was amazing! The children gave out over 300 tasters and talked to hundreds of people, and everyone loved it. Change is going to happen, with huge thanks to your support!”
The event was supported financially by Caerphilly Town Council, helping to ensure another successful festival for the local community.
