SeaFest Peterhead Returns with Record-Breaking Attendance
SeaFest Peterhead was a resounding success this past weekend, with approximately 20,000 attendees flocking to the Aberdeenshire town to celebrate local seafood and maritime culture. The festival, held on Saturday, September 13, at Seagate, showcased the region’s rich fishing heritage, welcoming visitors from as far away as Cornwall.
A Growing Community Event
Organized by a dedicated team of volunteers, this year’s event marked the second edition of SeaFest Peterhead. While a specific date for the next festival has yet to be set, the committee is optimistic about returning to the Blue Toon in 2027.
A fisherwoman at SeaFest Peterhead
A Day of Fun and Learning
This year’s festival featured expanded spaces, resulting in doubled attendance and tripled exhibitors. A total of 97 vendors participated, including emergency services like the coastguard, police, and fire brigades, along with a wide range of food and drink producers, artists, and community organizations.
The RNLI showcased two boats, attracting over 1,500 visitors who eagerly boarded throughout the day. Local maritime services firm Intermara Marine also contributed by running 12 boat tours, raising £1,100 for the RNLI Peterhead and Peterhead Sea Cadets.
Culinary Delights and Community Spirit
Event chairman Jimmy Buchan expressed his amazement at the community’s support. “I didn’t think we could top the success of 2023, but here we are two years later smashing our attendance records,” he said. “This festival is a celebration of our area’s fishing heritage and culture.”
Culinary demonstrations featured a range of dishes, from langoustine risotto to lobster with thermidor butter, thanks to ESS and their culinary director Graham Singer.
Family-Friendly Activities
Families enjoyed numerous activities, including free face painting, a pet fair, virtual reality experiences, and safety demonstrations by water safety dogs. The festival truly had something for everyone, making it a perfect day out for all ages.
Thank You to Supporters
Buchan extended his gratitude to the festival sponsors and the voluntary committee without whom SeaFest Peterhead wouldn’t be possible. The inclusion of a park-and-ride service helped ensure easy access for all attendees.
Ross Williams from MarramWind noted the successful engagement with visitors, highlighting the importance of community involvement in energy projects that promise economic growth in the region.
Looking Ahead
As planning begins for future editions of SeaFest Peterhead, the community looks forward to fostering local culture and continuing to attract seafood enthusiasts from around the world.
Images © Fat Man Skinny Camera
For more information, visit the SeaFest Peterhead website.
