The Big Eat Festival

The Big Eat Festival runs from Saturday 23 May to Monday 25 May 2026 at Royal Victoria Country Park in Netley. It is the fifth year of this popular food event and takes place over the bank holiday weekend.

The festival is free to enter and attracts big crowds with around 50 street food traders offering a wide choice of dishes. You can find gourmet burgers, wood fired pizzas, fresh seafood, BBQ, international cuisines, vegetarian options and plenty of sweet treats. Many traders provide samples or smaller portions so you can try different things.

There are fully licensed bars serving local beers, wines, cocktails and non alcoholic drinks. The park setting gives plenty of space to sit and eat with views across the water and green areas for children to play.

Live music is a big part of the weekend with bands and local acts performing on the main stage and a second stage. Expect a mix of foot stomping music, tribute acts and family friendly entertainment throughout the day. There are also cooking demonstrations, market stalls and activities for kids including face painting and games.

Last year the event welcomed over 40,000 people so it gets busy especially on the Saturday and Sunday. Opening times are usually 10am to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday with slightly shorter hours on the Monday bank holiday. Exact times and the full music line up will be confirmed closer to the date on the official website.

The location at Royal Victoria Country Park in Netley is easy to reach from Hamble Valley with good parking on site though it can fill up. The park has woodland walks and a beach area so you can combine the festival with a stroll or time by the water.

Profits from the event support local food banks which adds a feel good factor. It is a relaxed family friendly festival where you can eat drink and enjoy live music in a beautiful park setting without any ticket cost for entry.

For the latest details on food traders music schedule and any updates check the official site at thebigeatfestival.co.uk or their Facebook page. They usually release more information in the weeks leading up to the event.

This is one of the biggest food festivals near Hamble Valley and makes a great day out if you enjoy street food and live entertainment in a scenic spot.