Traders are being encouraged to get ahead for the new year as applications open to be involved in one of the North East’s most popular food festivals.

Durham County Council has confirmed Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 August will be the dates for Seaham Food Festival 2023.

As one of the region’s biggest food festivals, each year the event is host to hundreds of independent stalls selling everything from sensational street food and delicious desserts to refreshing beverages.

It also features a series of cookery demonstrations from a star-studded line-up of celebrity chefs, as well as a packed programme of family entertainment.

The Northern Echo: As one of the region’s biggest food festivals, each year the event is host to hundreds of independent stalls As one of the region’s biggest food festivals, each year the event is host to hundreds of independent stalls (Image: Chris Booth)

This year the festival will also be supported by England Coast’s Year of the Coast 2023, celebrating seaside regions across the UK.

Trader applications are now open for the festival, and businesses are being encouraged to submit their interest as they plan ahead for the new year.

Vendors are asked to include as much information as possible about their business in their application, including latest news and awards, images of their set up, links to social media and their menu.

The Northern Echo: Visitors watch a food demonstration at the Cookery Theatre hosted by Chris BavinVisitors watch a food demonstration at the Cookery Theatre hosted by Chris Bavin (Image: Chris Booth)

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “While the summer may seem far away, December is the perfect time for traders and food vendors to plan their event schedules for the new year.

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“Seaham Food Festival not only attracts thousands of visitors over the weekend, but we also get interest from lots of businesses which want to showcase their fantastic produce. This time, we want to open our applications early to give traders as much opportunity as possible to get involved.

“We are really excited to start the new year with the return of our food festivals, which are a key part of our annual festival and events programme. With the Year of the Coast taking place in 2023, there will be an even bigger spotlight shone on Seaham Food Festival as England’s coast is promoted as a sustainable year-round destination.”

Businesses have until Friday 17 February to submit their application for the festival, which can be done online at www.seahamfoodfestival.co.uk