Festival Programme 2008

Something for everyone!

Pontefract, the liquorice capital of England, presents a delicious, action packed festival celebrating the culture and heritage of this famous market town.

Pontefract, a unique historic town with Norman Castle, cobbled streets, beautiful gardens and the aroma of warm liquorice emanating from local sweet factories, provides a fantastic backdrop to the annual Liquorice festival.

In 2008, the festival has had to scale down it's  programme to provide only 2 days of  entertainment, You will still be able to take in many historic sites, indoor and outdoor venues and a range of events suitable for old and young.


Castle in Action Saturday 12th July: 11am to 5pm Pontefract Castle
Step back in time with this fascinating, fun, look at historic life in the atmospheric ruins of the Norman Castle. You will be able to see and participate in themed entertainment, re-enactments, music and food, living history camps, demonstrations, historic art and craft workshops. Free.

Liquorice Talks & Tour  Saturday 12th July: 11am to 5pm departing from Pontefract Castle
Take a guided tour of a local liquorice farm to hear one of Tom Dixon’s informative and entertaining liquorice talks. Ticketed.

National Liquorice Day Sun 13th July: 11am to 5pm Town Centre
Festival Finale with the best of live music, specialist foods, street acts, community performances, exhibitions, activity and fun zones, art and craft workshops. All this sits alongside a bursting art, craft and liquorice produce market which includes liquorice sweets of all varieties as well as liquorice beer, cheese, bread, sausage, bacon, pies and herbal remedies.

Pomfretians welcome all for a fun, tasty festival of liquorice, music, mirth and merriment!