Barry Island Festival Attracts Thousands
The crowds flocked to Barry Island this weekend, to sample the music, food and culture on offer, at the first ever Beats, Eats and Treats weekend festival.
Organised by the Vale of Glamorgan Council with financial support from Barry Town Council, the focus of the weekend was to showcase craft, culture, food and drink from the region and as with the glorious sunshine it didn’t disappoint.
Craft stalls lined up beneath the promenade and also in the Council’s beach huts, which provided a perfect setting to display the wares on offer.
There was no chance of visitors becoming hungry with award winning chefs serving up tasty dishes from their pop-up eateries including Meat and Greek, Purple Poppadom, Ffwrnes Pizza, Mr Croquewich, Dixie’s Vintage Ices and Science Cream.
Anyone building up a thirst on the hot day was well catered for too with local producers Vale Cider and Tomos a Lilford Brewery.
Alongside them, stalls from Vale of Glamorgan’s twin towns – Fécamp in France, Rheinfelden in Germany and Mouscron from Belgium, added a truly continental feel to the weekend, where they sold local produce and also where Rheinfelden’s Glass-Blowing Councillor Wilfred Markus entertained everyone (particularly the children) with his skill in producing many different glass pieces, which were for also for sale.
A food demonstration stand showed off the culinary skills of a number of chefs including those of Michelin Star holder James Sommerin, The Gallery, Hangfire Smokehouse and Bar 44.
The soundtrack for the day was provided by Bro Radio’s live broadcast and live music in the form of samba, folk, brass and a German oompah band.
There was fun for all the family, with circus workshops by Carl John and the Council’s play scheme keeping the little ones entertained all day.
Cllr Neil Moore, Leader of the Council, said, “Our first Beats, Eats and Treats festival was an overwhelming success. It has encouraged thousands of people to come to Barry Island over the weekend and enjoy the stalls, food, drink and atmosphere.
“I’m pleased that everyone managed to arrive safely and simply, whether they were driving, walking or using public transport. It demonstrates that Barry Island can host an impressive event. My thanks go to everyone that worked so hard to make the weekend so enjoyable, for so many.”
The summer schedule of free events continues on Barry Island with the Red Arrows at the Transport Festival on Sunday 12 June and the Barry Island Weekenders programme runs throughout July and August featuring The Isle of Fire, Street Music Weekender, Street Theatre Weekender, Circus Weekender and Cinema by the Sea.
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