The Big Eat Festival 2026 returns for its fifth year to the picturesque Royal Victoria Country Park in Netley from Saturday 23 May to Monday 25 May 2026. This free-to-attend community celebration has quickly become a local favourite, bringing together more than 60 of the finest street food vendors from across Hampshire and beyond. It’s an event with a heart, as every bite supports local food banks and charities, making it a truly feel-good weekend for the whole family. Whether you are there to taste award-winning burgers, enjoy a full programme of live music, or watch the high-stakes chilli eating competition, what’s on offer ensures a vibrant atmosphere in one of the most beautiful coastal parks in the region.
Hampshire Street Food Awards and Global Cuisine
The Big Eat Festival 2026 is a culinary battleground where more than 60 street food traders compete for the prestigious Hampshire Street Food Awards. Visitors can enjoy a vast range of flavours, with vendors battling for titles such as Best Burger, Best Pizza, and Best Vegan Dish. The selection includes:
- International Street Food: Sample authentic dishes from traders like Street Food Spain, Tacos by Baja, and The Bao Beast.
- Local Craft Drinks: Refresh yourself with local brews from Powder Monkey Brewing Co. or enjoy a cocktail from The Drunken Barman.
- Artisan Treats: Indulge in sweet options from The Poffertjes Kitchen or enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at The Twisted Tea Rooms.
Live Music Stages and Daily Entertainment
The festival features a packed programme of entertainment across three distinct stages, ensuring there is a lively soundtrack to your weekend. From high-energy tribute acts to relaxed acoustic sets, what’s on the schedule includes:
- The Magic Bus Stage: Catch headlining performances from acts like the Stone Cold Chili Peppers, Kojaks Revenge, and the Fleetwood Collective.
- FiestaFM Media Stage: This stage hosts a variety of community acts, dance troupes, and the legendary annual Chilli Eating Contest.
- Family Fun: Beyond the music, children can enjoy a petting zoo, a silent disco, circus skills workshops, and traditional magic shows.
The Big Eat Dog Show
On Bank Holiday Monday, the festival hosts a popular fun dog show in partnership with Hamble Hounds. It is a fantastic community event where all proceeds go to support the charity Canine Partners.
- Show Classes: Categories include Happiest Dog, Waggiest Tail, Older and Wiser (for dogs 9 years and over), and a Puppy Parade.
- How to Enter: There is no need to register in advance. Simply turn up on the Monday and pay the £2.50 entry fee per class at the ring.
- Prizes: Rosettes and prizes are awarded to third place in every category, making it a proud moment for local pet owners.
Event Schedule: The Big Eat Festival
The festival runs across the entire May Bank Holiday weekend with opening times tailored for family enjoyment. It is what’s on for those seeking live music, family performances, and local talent.
Magic Bus Stage
| Day & Time | Artists & Performers |
|---|---|
| Saturday 23 May 10:00 – 20:00 | Stone Cold Chili Peppers, Hitched, Kojaks Revenge, Parallel Lines, Ghosts in the Machine, Devils Damned String Band, Julies Musical Trip Around the World |
| Sunday 24 May 10:00 – 20:00 | Soul Suspects, Britpop Revolution, The Black Bear Killing Spree, Calum Lintott, Davey Jones Locker, Samzara, Pursuit of Pleasure, Jordan Mills |
| Monday 25 May 10:00 – 18:00 | Fleetwood Collective, EMZ Allstars, Southside Rhythm & Blues Band, Days of Speed, East Cowes Shanty, Naveah |
FiestaFM Media Stage
Saturday 23 May (10:00 – 20:00)
| Time | Performance / Event |
|---|---|
| 10:00 | Fragile Lucy |
| 11:00 | TBC |
| 12:00 | Ukofonics |
| 13:00 | Immersive Dance Company with Amy |
| 14:00 | Dan O’Farrell & The Difference Engine |
| 15:00 | David Caswell & The Moonseeds |
| 16:00 | Chili Eating Contest |
| 17:00 | K.I.D. Hype |
| 18:00 – 20:00 | TBC |
Sunday 24 May (10:00 – 20:00)
| Time | Performance / Event |
|---|---|
| 10:00 | TBC |
| 11:00 | Julia Bless |
| 12:00 | Salty Sea Dogs |
| 13:00 | Swan Samba Drummers |
| 14:00 | Keith Fenn |
| 15:00 | Loulu V |
| 16:00 | Vexmantra |
| 17:00 – 20:00 | TBC |
Monday 25 May (10:00 – 17:00)
| Time | Performance / Event |
|---|---|
| 10:00 – 11:00 | TBC |
| 12:00 | Jordana Stacy |
| 13:00 | TBC |
| 14:00 | Korales Mexican Dancers |
| 15:00 – 16:00 | TBC |
| 17:00 | Zen Juddism |
Live Entertainment
Available Saturday and Sunday (10:00 – 20:00) and Monday (10:00 – 18:00).
- Punch and Judy Shows: Classic seaside puppetry for all ages.
- Circus Skills: Interactive workshops to learn juggling and balance.
- Deeds of Arms: Historical displays and demonstrations.
- Magic Shows: Professional stage performances throughout the day.
- Street Magic: Close-up illusions appearing across the festival grounds.
- Additional Acts: Many more surprises to be announced.
Event Ticket
The Big Eat Festival 2026 is proud to be a free-to-attend event, ensuring that everyone in the community can enjoy the celebration of local food and talent.
- Admission: Free (No pre-booked tickets or registration required).
- Charity Support: While entry is free, visitors are encouraged to make a donation or purchase from vendors, as all festival profits go to local food banks.
- Dog Show Entry: £2.50 per class (Cash or QR code payment at the ring on Monday only).
How to get to Royal Victoria Country Park
The venue is located in Netley Abbey (SO31 5RA) and is one of the most accessible coastal parks in the Southampton area.
- By Train: Netley Railway Station is a short, ten-minute walk from the park entrance. It offers direct links to Southampton Central and Portsmouth.
- By Car: From the M27, exit at Junction 8 and follow the brown tourism signs for Royal Victoria Country Park.
- By Bus: Local bus services stop near the park gates in Netley village, providing a convenient alternative to driving.
Where to Park
Parking is available within the grounds of the country park, though charges apply as set by Hampshire County Council.
- On-site Parking: There are multiple large car parks available, but they can fill up very quickly during peak lunchtime periods.
- Parking Charges: Expect to pay approximately £1.80 for up to one hour or £4.00 for the entire day.
- Disabled Access: Dedicated parking areas for Blue Badge holders are located close to the main festival arena.
Savour the Best of Hampshire Street Food
Do not miss out on this award-winning culinary celebration. Discover what’s on in Southampton and plan your perfect bank holiday weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to book a ticket for The Big Eat Festival 2026?
- No, entry to the festival is completely free and no pre-booked tickets are required. It’s a walk-in event designed for the whole community to enjoy together.
- Is the festival dog friendly?
- Yes, the festival is dog friendly and well-behaved pets are welcome on a lead. There is even a dedicated dog show on Bank Holiday Monday with various fun categories for your pet to enter.
- Can I bring my own food and drink into the park?
- While water and small snacks for children are permitted, visitors are encouraged to support the local traders. There are over 60 street food vendors and licensed bars available on-site offering a massive range of options.
- What payment methods are accepted by the food traders?
- Most traders accept card and mobile payments, but it is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller stalls or in case of any signal issues with card machines.
- Are there specific activities for children at the event?
- Yes, there is a full programme of children’s entertainment including a petting zoo, magic shows, circus skills workshops, and traditional Punch and Judy performances throughout the weekend.
