Last year we made several changes. Some initiatives were clear wins, so we are continuing with:
Limiting visitor numbers
For most events, success is measured by the number of people who turn up. But there’s a balance to be struck. Prior to last year we got just a little too busy. No time to browse and chat. So, by limiting tickets we are rewinding the clock and offering a ‘boutique’ experience that is all about taking time to really engage with everything that AFF has to offer.
“It was much nicer [2021] and with smaller crowds we could chat to the customers. It’s been an absolute hoot and the easiest, happiest, least stressful and most brilliant food festival to date!” (The Preservation Society)
Advance booking
With advance booking only (and no walk-up on the day), we know exactly how many people to expect and this helps us get the footprint just right. It also allows for more enjoyable shopping within the town environment as a whole. Abergavenny is well-known for the quality and variety of its independent shops.
More free events with the Stroller Wristband
We added much more value to the Stroller experience with top industry professionals sharing their know-how: chefs, cooks, food writers, campaigners, growers and producers – one great melting pot of culinary talent. Dems in the Market Hall, cooking over fire at the Castle, serious and not-so-serious topics up for debate and talks in the Dome, and hands-on cookery classes for children too.
The Festival Magazine
If you haven’t been before, then do check out our Review of 2021 – Photo Gallery, and Festival Magazine (available to download and view as a pdf. Some of the articles are about the founding of AFF and the wider community that makes it special).
BOX OFFICE GOES LIVE ON 1 APRIL