Pontefract Liquorice Festival is back
Monday, June 30, 2025
Get ready for sweet-themed fun celebrating Pontefract’s historic link with liquorice as Pontefract Liquorice Festival returns on Sunday 13 July, 10am-4pm.
“We can’t wait for the return of the fabulous Pontefract Liquorice Festival.
“The festival is a firm family favourite with something for everyone to enjoy. There’ll be vibrant entertainment, stalls and of course the much-loved parade. So come along and enjoy a really great day out.”
Cllr Hannah Appleyard
Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport
Enjoy the colour and spectacle of the Liquorice Parade sponsored by Haribo, with colourful costumes and Haribo’s iconic mascot Goldbear leading the way. There will be two performances at 11:30am and 2:30pm at Cornmarket (starting from the Haribo Factory).
Expect tasty treats to tempt the taste buds, quirky gifts and homeware that you just won’t find anywhere else as the renowned specialty market returns.
Head to Cornmarket and Salter Row and get creative at our free, family-friendly art workshops ‘Candy Creations’ and ‘Liquorice Lanes’.
There will be plenty of entertainment including funfair rides, face-painting, buskers and festival favourites Lucy Liquorice and Liquorice Cake. Visitors can enjoy live music from talented local musicians compered by stage partners Rhubarb Radio.
Extend your stay with the return of the Liquorice Food & Drink Trail and sample a sweet-themed special from one of the incredible bars, restaurants and cafes that Pontefract has to offer.
Those wanting to find out more about the history of liquorice and Pontefract’s heritage can listen to Colin White's talk at Pontefract Library at 11:30am and 2pm or join Pontefract Museum for their sweet-themed crafts and trail.
Pontefract Liquorice Festival runs in partnership with the Pontefract Civic Society who are also hosting ‘Liquorice Shoots’ on Saturday 12 July - a community warm-up event for the main festival featuring entertainment, artisan stalls and family activities.
Find out more about the Pontefract Liquorice Festival at https://experiencewakefield.co.uk/event/liquorice-festival/
A free of charge Park & Ride service is available on Sunday leaving Pontefract Park approximately every 15 minutes between 9:30am and 4:30pm. Please note the last service will leave the town centre at 4:30pm and the park gates will be closed at 5:30pm.