April rings in the spring season with a number of local food and drink festivals and campaigns. Make the most of asparagus, rustle up a charitable curry, sing the praises of the heroic garlic bulb, and you’d have to be sleepwalking to miss Easter and all the indulgent delights it brings.
1-30 April
Big Curry Month
Nationwide
This month is all about curries, in an attempt to raise money for the Army Benevolent Fund. It’s easy to get involved, as you can host your own curry night, and in return your guests will make a donation to the fund. The proceeds will go towards supporting soldiers and veterans, and their families. Why not check out our curry recipes? Find out more on the website.
3-5 April
Chester Food, Drink and Lifestyle Festival
Chester
Come along and visit over 120 stalls, showcasing the very best the region has to offer. There will be plenty of food to taste, as well as a Champagne tent and a beer-tasting marquee. Simon Rimmer, Michael Caines and Thomasina Miers will be among the chefs appearing at the festival. Check out the website for more details.
2-5 April
Easter
Worldwide Christian celebration
Easter Sunday marks one of the most important events in the Christian calendar, marking the day that Jesus was resurrected following his crucifixion. Easter will often involve a feast, as it signifies the end of a period of fasting. More recently, Easter eggs have become an important part of the festivities, for Christians and non-Christians alike. Egg hunts are often held, and chocolate eggs have become an essential part of the celebrations for most people! Easter recipes.
9-11 April
Exeter Festival of South West Food and Drink
Northernhay Gardens & Exeter Castle, Exeter, Devon
The popular festival is returning, and promises a mix of celebrities, top chefs, and the best local food and drinks. You can expect to see Celebrity MasterChef winner Matt Dawson, fish supremo Mitch Tonks, and delicious. magazine's own wine expert Suzy Atkins among the guests. Website.
10-11 April
Lancashire Food Festival
Accrington, Lancashire
This annual food festival celebrates the best the county has to offer. As well as the chance to sample and buy wonderful seasonal produce, there are demonstrations and events to be enjoyed. Previous years have seen Gino D’Acampo and the Hairy Bikers welcomed as special guests. Website.
13-15 April
Songkran (Thai New Year Water Festival)
Thailand
The principle ritual of the Songkran involves throwing clear water, but it is also the opportunity to get together with the family for a feast. The foods eaten will vary across the country’s different regions, but you can expect to find Pad Thai noodles, chicken with green curry and krayasad (a sweet mixture made from noodles, oats, puffed rice and peanuts) on the menu. Quick Thai dishes.
17 April
Bishop Auckland Food Festival
Auckland Castle, nr Durham
Food, drink, arts & crafts, and culture combine to create an event that showcases the best of the food, drink and produce in north-east England in this attractive rural market town. Website.
19 April
National Garlic Day
Nationwide
The little bulb that forms the basis of so many great dishes takes centre stage today. As well as being a culinary superstar, garlic has long been thought to have medicinal qualities too. Why not celebrate by knocking up one of our garlic recipes?
22-24 April
The Maltings Beer Festival
Tuckers Maltings, Newton Abbot, Devon
Come along to one of the most highly regarded independent beer festivals in the UK. There are over 259 ales to choose from, and the event is held at a traditional Malting building. The beers compete to be selected to represent the south-west in a national tournament. Website.
23 April-21 June
British Asparagus Festival
Vale of Evesham, Evesham
Asparagus is one of the most exciting vegetables that Britain produces, but its season is unfairly short. Make the most of this special veg by joining in the celebrations at the British Asparagus Festival. You can take part in The Great English Asparagus Run, or take a tour on an Asparabus! Check out our asparagus recipes here. For further details, see the website.
23 April
St George’s Day
England
The popularity of the patron saint of England’s day has diminished since medieval times. The custom of wearing a red rose has given way to flying the English flag, most commonly in pubs throughout the country. There are, however, many campaigns that run to promote the event, and some even call for it to become a public holiday. Why not get involved, and seek out some St George-related festivities near you? Best of British.
26 April
The S. Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants Awards
The Guildhall, London
The most prestigious list of the world’s best restaurants for 2010 is unveiled today. Will El Bulli continue to hold the top spot, or will there be a new contender for the crown? See the website for more details.
29 April-3 May
Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival
Moray, Speyside
The perfect event for anyone who likes a ‘wee dram’, the annual Whisky Festival returns to Speyside. There are hundreds of events, ranging from whisky tastings to a food fair, and the chance to explore distilleries not usually open to visitors. Visitors can also take part in the voting for the festival’s Whisky Awards. Website.