Redcar is set to launch its inaugural Dessert Festival this weekend as the town seeks to add a new summertime attraction to the seafront calendar. The free, two-day event runs on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July and promises ice cream, cakes, chocolate and activities aimed at families.
What the festival will offer
The festival will convert Redcar town centre into a hub for artisans and dessert producers, with a programme of demonstrations and hands-on sessions. A dedicated Festival Demo Kitchen is scheduled to showcase work from chocolatiers, bakers and chefs, while a series of workshops will give visitors the chance to try their hand at sweet-making.
- Hands-on workshops such as cheesecake decorating, chocolate lollipop making and ice cream making (some sessions carry a small charge and require advance booking)
- Beamish Museum-led workshops exploring the history of ice cream
- A family-friendly Sweet Trail to encourage exploration of the town and to support local businesses
- The Redcar & Cleveland Cake Competition for amateur bakers
- Live entertainment throughout both days including performances and walkabout acts
Local support and timing
Council deputy leader and cabinet member for climate and culture, Cllr Carrie Richardson, said the authority was pleased to be launching the new event. She framed it as an opportunity for promotion and economic support for the town centre.
"We're delighted to be launching Redcar's first Dessert Festival and what better way to kick off the summer holidays," she said.
The timing coincides with National Ice Cream Day on Sunday, giving visitors an extra reason to choose Redcar for a seaside treat. Stalls, demonstrations and family entertainment will run across both days, with creative sessions provided by local groups including the Creative Babes Club Studio.
Practical information
Entry to the festival is free. Visitors should be aware that while most attractions are free to attend, several hands-on workshops have limited spaces and require advance booking; a small fee applies to some sessions. The festival includes a mix of paid and free activities designed to appeal to a wide age range.
| Date | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Saturday 18 July | Festival Demo Kitchen, workshops, Sweet Trail, live acts |
| Sunday 19 July | National Ice Cream Day events, cake competition, family entertainment |
For residents and visitors, the festival is intended to be both a family day out and a boost for small local traders. Those planning to attend should check the full programme in advance to reserve places on popular workshops and to see the timings for demonstrations and performances.
Further details on bookings and the full timetable will be available from Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and festival organisers in the run-up to the weekend.
