You can almost smell it already — smoke in the air, something sizzling over open flames, and that first bite that makes you stop mid-conversation (you know the one).

Delapré Food Festival is back this June, and it’s not just returning — it’s levelling up. Big time.

Set against the postcard-perfect backdrop of Delapré Abbey, this year’s event (Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June, if you’re already reaching for your calendar) is bringing together artisan food, family fun and — wait for it — a genuine Texas BBQ legend.

From Texas to Northampton (yes, really)

Colter Peck is flying in from the US to headline the festival, bringing authentic Lone Star State barbecue straight to Northamptonshire. Expect bold flavours, fire-led cooking and the kind of techniques you don’t usually see outside of a proper American smokehouse.

He’ll be leading the chef demo stage and the Live Fire Cooking School — alongside James Peck of Wellingborough’s Ember (a name local foodies will already have bookmarked).

It’s a bit of a moment, actually. Northampton meeting Texas over a grill.

A weekend that’s basically a food lover’s playground

Across the Abbey’s lawns, things will be buzzing. Think artisan traders, wine and gin tastings, and cheese masterclasses with expert Shane Holland (yes, there will be samples — deep breaths).

The whole thing is curated by the team behind Bite Street NN and Towcester Food Festival, so expectations are — fairly — high.

And new for 2026? A Street Food Evening on the Saturday. More time. More food. More music. More of those “just one more dish” decisions.

There’s also an exclusive Live Fire Festival Banquet — an eight-course tasting experience where Colter Peck and James Peck team up for something seriously special. This isn’t your grab-and-go moment. This is sit down, savour it, remember it.

Not just for the food obsessives

If you’re thinking about bringing the family, you’re covered.

There’s a free circus, face painting, bouncy castles and kids’ cookery classes — enough to keep small humans very happy while you sneak off for another tasting (no judgement here).

And because this is Delapré, your ticket also gets you into the Abbey itself — a chance to explore one of Northampton’s standout heritage spots in between bites.

Local talent, front and centre

Alongside the international headliner, the chef demo stage will spotlight some of the region’s best, including Hibiscus head chef Bart Polinski. Expect seasonal dishes, insider tips and probably a few “I could try that at home” moments (whether you actually do is another story).

Festival founder Crispin Slee said: “We are incredibly excited to bring Delapré Food Festival back for 2026 with our most ambitious line-up yet. Bringing a talent like Colter Peck over from Texas is a huge coup for Northampton; it bridges the gap between our local ‘Live Fire’ scene and the world-class BBQ culture of the States.

“From our free family circus to the new evening street food party, we’ve designed this weekend to be a true celebration of great food and great vibes in one of the town’s most beautiful heritage settings.”

The practical bits (you’ll want these)

Dates: Saturday 6 June (10am–5pm, plus Street Food Evening 5pm–9pm) and Sunday 7 June (10am–4pm)
Location: Delapré Abbey, London Road, Northampton
Tickets: From £12 (early bird), under 5s go free
Parking: Free on-site
Accessibility: Inclusive access available (just note uneven ground in places)

Full details and tickets are at delaprefoodfestival.co.uk.

So… what’s the move?

This is your sign to plan that summer weekend properly. Come hungry. Bring friends. Try something new. Maybe even discover your new favourite dish somewhere between Northampton and Texas.

Just don’t say no to the BBQ. That would be a mistake.