5 Reasons to Visit Salcombe Crabfest 2023!

Guest Blog Post - Salcombe Crabfest

On 30th April, Salcombe Crabfest returns to the town for its annual crab-tastic extravaganza! One of South Devon’s stand-out family events, this free-to-attend day out is packed full of entertainment taking place throughout the town. Expect great food, fantastic demos, and the incredible, vibrant atmosphere now synonymous with Crabfest. Here are five reasons not to miss Crabfest in 2023:

1. The demonstrating chefs

Since its inception, one of the festival highlights has been the Chefs’ Demo Marquee. Positioned at the heart of the festival in the Creek Car Park - a stunning location on the edge of Salcombe’s tidal estuary - visitors can grab a seat and watch the chefs demonstrating their crab cookery skills in front of the crowds. This year, attending chefs include: Jane Baxter of Kingsbridge based eatery Wild Artichokes, Freddy Bird, owner of Bristol restaurant littlefrench, Ben Tonks of The Seahorse in Dartmouth, Kirk Gosden, head chef at Rockfish, and David Menendez of Melvalco. Of course, the entertainment wouldn't be complete without BBC Radio Devon’s David Fitzgerald overseeing and commentating on the proceedings!

2. The fabulous food and drink producers

It goes without saying, Salcombe Crabfest is a haven for foodies. From seafood to pulled pork baps, fish tacos to noodles, expect a wealth of cuisines, with delicious street food to suit all tastes. You are sure to leave the festival with a full tummy and a mind bursting with fresh inspiration! Why not stroll along the street market, taking place along Island Street, where you can shop for ingredients as well as handmade arts and crafts – with over 80 local producers selling their wares, this unusual shopping opportunity is not to be missed.

3. Meet the fishermen

On Normandy Pontoon there will be the chance to get up close and personal with crabs, lobster and more. Meet local fisherman Jon Dornom, step aboard his crabber Tenacious, and buy some shellfish to take home. Jon will be selling catch donated by the fishing community, to raise money for the Fisherman’s Mission, a local charity supporting men and women working in the industry. Come along, ask questions, and let the children see what happens on a real fishing boat.

4. Family entertainment

The children are well-catered for at Salcombe Crabfest with entertainment to suit all ages. For the little ones, Crabfest sponsor Coast & Country Cottages will be providing free kids activities in their tent on Island Street. There will also be a selection of rides, and street entertainment to look out for. Throughout the day, there will be live music taking place in locations across the town. With musical genres ranging from shanty singing to blues and country, these interludes will have you toe-tapping whilst you browse the shops or enjoy a bite to eat.

5. It’s for charity

Last but not least, Salcombe Crabfest is all in aid of charity. Whilst it is free to visit the event, there will be collection buckets throughout the festival for any donations you would like to make. Since the event first began in 2016, over £50,000 has been raised for local and national good causes, and this year is no different. Nominated charities for 2023 are Devon Mind, Chill South Devon and Devon Air Ambulance. The event is run by volunteers from The Rotary Club of Salcombe, and any money raised goes directly to charity.

With a free park and ride service running from just outside Salcombe, accessing the event couldn’t be easier! For more information about Salcombe Crabfest, visit salcombecrabfest.co.uk