The Whitehaven Food Festival was held over the weekend of 8/9 August 2009. An estimated 100,000 visitors descended on the town to watch celebrity chefs, air displays, fireworks and so much more.

Ainsley Harriott thoroughly enjoyed his first trip to the Whitehaven and indicated that he would like to come again. Ainsley is not only a chef, but also a complete showman mixing music, humour and food to wow his audience.  Jean Christophe Novelli was as popular second time round as he was in 2007, making time for everyone who wanted a photograph or book signed, as well as fascinating audiences with his demonstrations illustrating his passion for cooking.

The continental market and Made in Cumbria sections were both colourful and popular with food from all over Europe available. The sunny weather was absolutely perfect for an outdoor market.

As if all this wasn’t enough, there were air displays, including the aerobatic Blades Display Team who carried out amazing aerial stunts just beyond the West Pier of Whitehaven Harbour. On Sunday afternoon the massive V Bomber, Vulcan B2 flew over the town with an awesome display of grace and power. Her engines could be heard half way to Cleator Moor, as she did her final pass on full power.

The Tall Ships Kathleen and May, Irene and Zebu were berthed on the Sugar Tongue during the Festival, and the public were able to go aboard and explore them over the weekend.

The Festival culminated in a spectacular fireworks display around Whitehaven harbour.

Plans are under way for Whitehaven Festival 2010, which will take place over the weekend of 26^th/27^th June and will incorporate Armed Forces Day on Sunday 27^th June.