Chester-le-EATS returns to the Banks Homes Riverside for its fifth anniversary celebrations - and this year, there’s even more for food and drink lovers to sink their teeth into.
The much-loved Food, Drink and Music Festival will return to Banks Homes Riverside on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September 2026, bringing another unforgettable weekend packed with incredible street food, live music, family entertainment and, for the very first time, exclusive bookable masterclasses.
After four successful years of serving up the very best flavours from across the North East and beyond, organisers are introducing a brand-new programme of intimate food and drink experiences hosted inside Durham Cricket’s executive boxes.
Festivalgoers will now have the chance to get even closer to some of the region’s top food and drink experts through a series of fun, interactive tasting sessions designed to celebrate great flavours.
Crush Wine Bar & Shop in Durham from Daniel Jonberger (former Head Sommelier at Rockliffe and 2 Michelin star Raby Hunt)
Durham city’s Crush Wine Bar, owned by Daniel Jonberger – one of the region’s expert wine sommeliers – will present Uncorked! – A Wine & Food Pairing Experience.
Guests will be guided through four specially selected wines, each paired with carefully curated small plates designed to complement – and even transform – the flavour of every pour.
Wing lovers are in for a treat as Hen & Hops teams up with Chester-le-EATS for a flavour-packed beer and wing masterclass hosted by business owner, Ally Chambers.
The popular, independent restaurant specialises in chicken wings as well as producing their own sauces and marinades. Guests will enjoy eight premium chicken wings marinated in Hen & Hops’ signature sauces, expertly paired with five locally sourced beers and ales. Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase their favourite sauces to take home.
“Who doesn’t love Chicken and Beer? Hen & Hops are a chicken and beer restaurant with a little bit of spice thrown in, based in the centre of Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Gin enthusiasts can also raise a glass during “Distilled”, hosted by the Ginologists at Tin of Sardines, based in both Durham City as well as Roker, Sunderland.
The masterclass will feature four speciality gins, which guests will learn about, and how to expertly pair them with mixers and garnishes. Those who book onto this class will also be treated to Tin’s signature cheese and charcuterie board, shared between two guests.
The masterclasses will run each day during Chester-le-EATS Each at 12noon; 1.45pm and 3.30pm and all are priced at £35 per person.
Tin of Sardines can be found in Durham and Roker with a massive collection of Gins & Mixers from across the globe.
Ythan Sale, Durham Cricket’s Events Manager, said:“Reaching our fifth year is a huge milestone for Chester-le-EATS and we wanted to celebrate in a big way. The event has grown year-on-year and the support from the local community has been incredible.
“The new masterclasses give people the chance to experience Chester-le-EATS in a completely different way – whether that’s discovering new tastes, learning more about wine, or enjoying expertly matched gins with friends.
“We’re really excited to bring something fresh and fun to the festival while still keeping everything people already know and love about the weekend.”
Chester-le-EATS 2026 will remain free to enter, with a packed line-up of street food traders, artisan producers, live music and family-friendly entertainment taking place across the weekend. The festival is also dog-friendly, meaning four-legged foodies are welcome too.
🎟 How to Book
Spaces on our Flight, Uncorked and Distilled Masterclasses are strictly limited to just 12 guests per session, so advance booking is essential.
To reserve your place, please contact the Events Team on 0191 387 2876 or email events@durhamcricket.co.uk.
📅 You can view the full masterclass timetable by visiting the Chester-le-EATS main event page using the form below.
Please note:
- All masterclasses are shared experiences unless a private booking is arranged.
- Sessions are limited to a maximum of 12 guests.
- All attendees must be 18 years or over, as alcohol will be served during each masterclass.
🍷🍺 With limited availability and our 5th anniversary celebrations expected to be our busiest yet, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.
Interested in a Masterclass? Let's Talk.
Have a question before you book? Complete the form below and a member of the Chester-le-EATS team will be in touch to help you secure your place.