Stepping into a food festival through the majestic gates of a 12th-century castle isn’t an everyday occurrence, yet in Wales, such extraordinary experiences await. St Donat’s Castle, a formidable coastal stronghold exuding a “Game of Thrones” ambiance, recently hosted Fantastic Fête, a distinctive culinary and entertainment spectacle.
This immersive two-day event transcends the traditional village fête, transforming it into a vibrant “culinary circus.” Attendees are treated to a whirlwind of live music, a roller rink, captivating circus performances, and an array of exceptional street food, all framed by the dramatic backdrop of a medieval castle perched above the Glamorgan Heritage Coast.
For much of the year, St Donat’s Castle, Wales’s oldest continuously inhabited fortress, operates as UWC Atlantic College, limiting public access. However, Fantastic Fête uniquely opens its ancient grounds, inviting visitors to explore its historic spaces—from Bradenstoke Hall to the Great Hall—while indulging in contemporary gourmet delights.
The festival’s design prioritizes a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere, a welcome departure from typical crowded food events. With timed ticketed entry, guests enjoy minimal waiting times for popular stalls like Korean fried chicken and churros, fostering a “supremely chill vibe” that encourages leisurely exploration and unburdened grazing.
While the diverse entertainment was noteworthy, the culinary offerings undeniably took center stage. Among the many gastronomic highlights, Bone Cartel’s Korean fried chicken emerged as a standout, earning accolades like “Best Main Dish” at the British Street Food Awards. Their buttermilk-battered strips, generously coated in spicy Korean sauce and adorned with pickled chillies and spring onion, presented a visually stunning and exquisitely flavored dish that has redefined fried chicken in Wales.
Beyond this celebrated dish, Fantastic Fête boasted an impressive array of food zones. “Coco Loco Mexico” offered spicy and sweet delights, “Feast From The East” provided authentic South Asian comfort food, and the “Street Food Circus All-Stars” presented a curated selection of award-winning and viral culinary favorites, ensuring a diverse palette of flavors for every visitor.
Complementing the epicurean journey were various beverage options, including pints from Welsh brewing titan Tiny Rebel Brewery and inventive summer cocktails from Lola’s Cocktail Bar. The festival also offered more whimsical entertainment, from acrobatic circus performers twirling flaming batons to an unexpected, exhilarating Mexican wrestling match, adding layers of delightful surrealism to the medieval setting.
In essence, Fantastic Fête masterfully blended historical grandeur with modern culinary innovation and playful entertainment. It’s an event that defies convention, proving that a village fête can be “catapulted into a fever dream” of unforgettable experiences, all within the enchanting embrace of a Welsh castle by the sea.
