SeaFest Peterhead to bring new seafood festival experience to the north-east of Scotland

Peterhead’s bustling harbour will provide the backdrop for new north-east food and drink event, SeaFest Peterhead, which is set to take place later this autumn. 

The one-day festival celebrating the region’s seafood sector will take place on Saturday September 9 from 11am to 4pm and organisers are already hailing the new addition as a date for the town’s social calendar.  

Free to attend, the inaugural family-friendly event at Seagate will ‘shellebrate’ the bounty of the sea at this fin-tastic extravaganza that will highlight the rich fishing heritage of Peterhead, Europe’s largest white fishing port. 

A seafood market will give attendees the chance to sample and purchase some of the finest produce in Aberdeenshire while live cooking demonstrations will see top local talent cook up a storm with quality seafood. Live music and children’s activities will keep the whole family entertained and educational exhibits will inspire festivalgoers to deep dive into the history of this long-standing industry. 

Other food and drink producers will also showcase their offerings on the day. 

Everyone from seafood enthusiasts to families and tourists alike are invited to join in the culinary celebrations at the quayside. 

Highlights of SeaFest Peterhead 2023 include: 

• Seafood Market: A bustling marketplace along the quayside at Seagate will offer a wide array of seafood products including freshly caught fish, shellfish and other seafood delicacies. Local suppliers will showcase the finest catch and provide opportunities for visitors to purchase and sample a variety of goods. 

• Live Cooking Demonstrations: Chefs and culinary experts will deliver interactive cooking demonstrations, sharing their expertise and techniques to prepare mouthwatering seafood dishes. Local hospitality students will be invited to showcase their talents using local produce and skills learned at the Academy. Visitors will learn tips and tricks to enhance their culinary skills and discover new recipes. 
• Seafood Tastings: Local vendors will present an enticing selection of dishes for visitors to sample and savour, with the aim of showcasing produce landed at Peterhead Harbour. From classic fish and chips to gourmet seafood creations, there will be something to suit everyone. 
• Educational Exhibits: Engaging displays will offer insights into the sustainable fishing practices employed by local fishermen as well as celebrate strong fishing heritage. Experts will provide educational sessions on responsible seafood consumption, highlighting the importance of making informed choices. On-site exhibits will explore the past and the generations that have come before. 
• Entertainment and Children’s Activities: Live music performances and family-friendly activities will create a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors will be amused while immersing themselves in local culture and traditions. Interactive games, educational activities and entertainment suitable for young visitors aims to inspire their interest in seafood, fishing and marine conservation. 
• Food and Beverage Stalls: Various local producers will provide options for different preferences and will showcase their artisanal products. 

SeaFest Peterhead will be delivered by businesses and groups within the Peterhead community and beyond.  

Jimmy Buchan, managing director of local firm Amity Fish Company and chairman of the SeaFest Peterhead steering group is delighted to be working with ambassadors of the seafood community to bring the event to the masses.  

He said: “Our seafood is renowned worldwide and having SeaFest Peterhead on the quayside of Peterhead Harbour is an opportunity to showcase what we do from sea to plate.  

“SeaFest will put a spotlight on every element of the sector from the fishermen fishing to processing, supply chain and hospitality. It will highlight the skills and passion that has made Peterhead famous for its fish.” 

“The longer-term view is that SeaFest will become an annual event that showcases our longstanding heritage, while inspiring the children of today to get involved in the industry and understand the future of this sustainable food chain.” 

SeaFest Peterhead is committed to promoting sustainability and responsible fishing practices and will educate visitors about the importance of preserving the oceans and ensuring the future of seafood resources. 

The event has already garnered many local sponsors including Seafood Scotland, Peterhead Port Authority, Aberdeenshire Council, Seafish and more. 

Are you a local business or community group with links to the fishing community? Contact Jenna Urquhart, festival secretary at jenna@amityfish.co.uk to get involved.