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How Do I Get My Mobile Catering Business Into Festivals?

by Jason evans
(Wales)

Cream converted horsebox catering unit at a UK summer food festival

Cream converted horsebox catering unit at a UK summer food festival

As a new business. how can I get it to festivals

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Aug 24, 2026
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by: MobCater

Good question Jason, and getting into festivals as a new business is more about paperwork and patience than most people expect.

The honest starting point is this: don't chase the big-name festivals first. Organisers at the large events get far more applications than they have pitches, and they tend to favour traders with a track record. So my advice is to cut your teeth on smaller local events first, think village fetes, bonfire nights, charity fundraisers, sports days and Christmas markets. They cost less to get into, the risk is lower, and every one you do gives you photos and a reputation to point to when you apply for something bigger.

When you are ready to apply, get your paperwork in order first, because it is the first thing an organiser asks for. You will typically need public liability insurance (often a minimum of five million pounds for the larger events), a Level 2 food hygiene certificate, your food business registration with the council, a gas safety certificate if you run on propane, a written risk assessment, your allergen information and a clear menu with prices. Having all of that ready, along with a few good photos of your setup, makes you look professional and easy to book.

To actually find the events, eventsbook.co.uk lists festivals and shows across the UK where traders can apply, and a quick search for "food festival" plus your area will turn up plenty more. Local Facebook trader groups are worth joining too. Apply early, six months ahead is normal for summer festivals, so start looking in January.

One last thing from experience: before you pay any pitch fee, ask how many people are really expected (then halve whatever they tell you), how many other traders will be there, and whether anyone else is selling your kind of food. And never trade without a written contract.

Good luck with it

David

Disclaimer: This is based on my experience in UK mobile catering. Rules and costs can change, so always do your own research and check with the relevant authorities before committing.

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