One of the most popular attractions at the Ginger & Spice Festival is set to return this September, with award-winning independent estate agency James Du Pavey announced as the headline sponsor of the James Du Pavey Festival Food Theatre.
Taking place beneath the iconic 19th-century Buttercross on Cheshire Street in the heart of Market Drayton, the Festival Food Theatre offers a full day of free live cookery demonstrations from 10.00am until 4.30pm on Saturday 26th September 2026.
Whether you’re an enthusiastic home cook, passionate foodie or simply looking for inspiration, the Food Theatre promises an exciting programme packed with seasonal recipes, expert tips and plenty of delicious ideas to take home.
Celebrity chef Rachel Green heads the line-up
Leading this year’s programme is celebrated chef, TV presenter and food campaigner Rachel Green, who will be joined by an outstanding line-up of local and regional chefs.
Visitors can also enjoy demonstrations from the talented tutors at Perry’s Field to Fork Artisan Cookery School, who return for a second year as supporting sponsors of the Food Theatre.
Rachel Green said:
“I’m delighted to be part of the Ginger & Spice Festival’s 10th anniversary celebrations. I’m looking forward to sharing delicious ideas, seasonal inspiration and practical tips that visitors can enjoy in their own kitchens. Ginger is a constant in my cooking for the warmth, balance and depth it brings, and I’m excited to celebrate the diversity of ingredients and spices from around the world.”
A partnership that supports the local community
James Du Pavey has been a valued supporter of the festival and is delighted to once again sponsor one of its flagship attractions.
The James Du Pavey team from the Eccleshall branch, led by Branch Manager Lee Davies, will be at the festival throughout the day to meet visitors and help create the welcoming atmosphere that has become synonymous with the event.
James Du Pavey commented:
“We’re absolutely delighted to once again support the Food Theatre at this year’s Ginger & Spice Festival. It’s fantastic to see the event continue to grow and become such a highlight in the town’s calendar. With live cookery demonstrations, artisan food stalls, shopping and family activities, there’s something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming visitors to our gazebo throughout the day.”
Inspiring confidence in the kitchen
Supporting sponsor Perry’s Field to Fork Artisan Cookery School is once again bringing together a talented group of chefs to demonstrate a wide variety of seasonal dishes and cooking techniques.
Deborah Hill, owner of Perry’s Field to Fork Artisan Cookery School, said:
“We’re thrilled to be supporting the Festival Food Theatre again this year. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talent of our chefs and inspire people to enjoy cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients.”
The demonstrations will once again be hosted by Ryan Kennedy, presenter of the mid-morning show on Shropshire Live, the festival’s official media partner.
