Thousands of people ate, drank, danced and enjoyed a weekend of family fun at the second Taste Cumbria festival in Carlisle.
Held in the Cathedral grounds and the newly-transformed Greenmarket, the event saw nearly 50 producers selling their wares, with lots of local performers also appearing on the music stage.
The two-day event was part of the Carlisle Fireshow celebrations and plans are already being made to return to the city in 2026.
This year’s event received positive feedback from traders who say they’re looking forward to future festivals. Kim Anson, from Carlisle-based KAH Ceramics, said: "It is nice to have lots of local artisans together. You can speak to the artists that actually made the products."
Mike Fell from Bois de Vivre at Crosby on Eden added: “It’s my second year here and it's been fabulous. There are lots of people here, sales have been good. I really hope they invite me back next year."
The Taste Cumbria events are organised by Cumberland Council and bring millions of pounds into the Cumberland economy through all the events, which include Cockermouth, Maryport and Wigton. The weekend’s events in Carlisle were supported by the UK Government using UKSPF funding.
Councillor Anne Quilter is the Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places at Cumberland Council. She said: “Taste Carlisle just gets bigger and better and I can’t wait to see how it can expand again in 2026.
“The newly-regenerated city centre spaces are perfect for events like this and will encourage even more footfall which is positive for everyone.
“Thank you to everyone who came and supported Taste Carlisle – the producers, the visitors, the musicians and entertainers, and our brilliant event staff who make Taste Cumbria such a success.”
There is one more Taste Cumbria event this year, the Christmas festival in Cockermouth on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December. Tickets go on sale this month for the Supper Club and Comedy Night. More details are available at www.tastecumbria.co.uk
Photo Credit: Tom Kay