Meat Up Festival Partners with The Farming Community Network to Champion Rural Communities

This press release was provided by Meat Up Festival


Meat Up Festival is proud to partner with The Farming Community Network (FCN) for its inaugural event this summer, placing a spotlight on the people and communities at the heart of British farming.

Taking place at Ashley Showground, Altrincham, on 1–2 August 2026, Meat Up Festival is the North’s first field-to-flame festival – bringing together live-fire cooking, farming culture, live music and family-friendly activities for a unique countryside experience.

A vibrant Farmers Market celebrates local produce and field-to-fork transparency, while the Thatchers Cider Party brings a lively festival feel with DJs, cider, and social energy.

The festival’s Agri Areaconnects visitors directly with British farmers and producers, including the host Annie Winn, and farmers Charlotte Ashley and Rebecca Wilson, Tom Carlisle, Frank Carr, and Eden Hill – alongside others representing the breadth of UK agriculture. This space champions the importance of supporting British farming today.

By supporting FCN, the festival aligns its celebration of food and farming with a deeper commitment to the wellbeing of the agricultural community. A percentage of all ticket sales will be donated to The Farming Community Network, directly supporting farmers and rural families across the UK with practical, financial and emotional guidance during times of need.

Georgina Lamb, Head of Partnerships at FCN commented: “We are delighted to be part of the Meat Up Festival which is a wonderful opportunity to bring the community together and celebrate the whole farming journey from field to fork. We look forward to connecting with supporters old and new while enjoying the best of British agriculture!”

Across the weekend, visitors can enjoy:

  • Live-fire cooking demonstrations from top UK chefs and pitmasters
  • Butchery and fieldcraft demonstrations celebrating traditional skills
  • Live music from artists including Craig Charles, Levi Roots and Ben Ottewell
  • A family-friendly Kids’ Zone with countryside activities
  • A farmers’ market showcasing local produce
  • A vibrant festival atmosphere with food, drink and social spaces

The partnership with FCN reinforces the festival’s core message of connection – from field to flame, and from community to community – encouraging visitors to not only enjoy the experience but also contribute to supporting rural communities.

Festivalgoers will also have the opportunity to learn more about FCN’s work and how they can support farming communities across the UK.

With easy access from across the North West and camping available for a full weekend experience, Meat Up Festival offers something for food lovers, families, and anyone looking to connect more deeply with the countryside.

Tickets are now on sale at meatupfestival.com, with discounted rates available for young farmers and students aged 21 and under. Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

ENDS.

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