Fife College’s much-loved Food and Drink Festival celebrated a major milestone on Saturday 14 March, welcoming around 1,200 visitors to its Kirkcaldy Campus for its tenth anniversary.
Part of Fife Food and Drink Week (7–15 March), the festival showcased the very best local produce, culinary talent, and interactive foodie experiences, confirming its place as a highlight in the region’s food calendar.
This year’s anniversary edition featured over 25 food and drink stalls, live cooking demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and family-friendly activities. Leading chefs, including Fife College lecturer Jamie Scott, winner of BBC’s MasterChef: The Professionals, and Lewis Mendies of BaxterStorey, shared their skills and passion with enthusiastic audiences.
A highlight was a lively ‘Ready Steady Cook’-style challenge, with College Vice Principal SJ Linton and Assistant Principal Diane Mitchell going head-to-head, supported by Culinary Arts students Alex Tutaj and Matthew McLauchlan. BaxterStorey, the College’s catering partner, also contributed to the vibrant food offering alongside local vendors.
Visitors enjoyed whisky and cider tastings, wine experiences, and a cocktail-making workshop celebrating the 250th anniversary of Adam Smith’s An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations. Families were well catered for with children’s cookery workshops, face-painting, and outdoor attractions.
The College’s student-run training restaurant, The Academy, also served small plates throughout the day, giving guests a taste of the professional standards achieved by culinary arts and hospitality students.
Barry Scott, Curriculum Manager, Department of Culinary Arts, Hospitality & Events at Fife College, said:
“We had a fantastic day at the Fife College Food and Drink Festival on Saturday with over 1,200 people through the door, enjoying the brilliant atmosphere and all the opportunities to learn about Fife’s food and drink scene.
“A big thanks to everyone who helped make this such a successful event, especially in our tenth year, and to the colleagues who came along on the day with friends and family.
“Events like this really showcase what we can achieve together, and it’s inspiring to see so many colleagues and partners coming together to create such a positive and memorable experience for our community.”
For more information about Culinary Arts and Hospitality courses on offer at Fife College, visit our course pages.
Photograph (l to r): Diane Mitchell, Assistant Principal, School of Business, Digital and Creative, Alex Tutaj, Culinary Arts student, Matthew McLauchlan, Culinary Arts student and SJ Linton, Vice Principal, are pictured at the Fife College Food and Drink Festival 2026 at the College’s Kirkcaldy Campus.