Tens of thousands of additional visitors came to Hull city centre at the end of July to sample the culinary delights showcased at Yum! Festival.
The ever popular annual event was a hit with visitors wishing to sample local produce, enjoy family-themed activities or just soak up the atmosphere. Over 381,000 visitors came into the city centre across the three days. There was a buzz and feel-good factor across the weekend, one member of the public said, “It was great family fun and a fantastic free day out!”
The city centre was a hive of activity including a continental market on King Edward Street, Tasty Tent and Chefs’ Theatre on Princes Dock Street, Kids’ Bitesize area in Trinity Square and a collection on fringe stalls and entertainment. The festival kicked off with a Jazz Evening on Thursday 28th July as part Hull Jazz Festival playing to a full house in the chefs’ theatre. On Friday 29th July Viking FM’s Rosie and the breakfast team were on hand to open the Tasty Tent and speak to traders on the markets. Hull BID area business Revolution on Lowgate, who traded in the Tasty Tent said, “We were really pleased with the event as it was a great platform to promote the dining side of our business and it also allowed us to promote the private parties we offer.”
One of the many highlights was the finale of the Copper Saucepan competition which saw the two finalists battling it out in a live cook off in front of a large audience. Alex James of Millhouse Restaurant, Skidby impressed the judges with his culinary skills securing the Young Apprentice Chef of the Year Award. Paul Vinsen, Chair of HEYHA the organisers behind the competition said, “The Copper Saucepan competition held at Yum! Festival was fantastic! We’d be delighted to be involved in Yum! again next year.”
Hull BID is thrilled with the event’s popularity which allowed many BID members to participate and showcase their businesses. The increase in footfall demonstrates that if quality events are hosted in Hull city centre, people will come.
“The first Yum! Festival was a great success so we kept the best of that and added a few new ingredients. Obviously this is a winning formula with visitors to the city centre and I hope we can build on that in the future.” said Kathryn Shillito, Hull BID City Centre Manager.
