Exhibition Park is set to host the debut of the Newcastle Food & Drink Festival over the May Bank Holiday weekend.

This celebration of international influence and local talent hopes to delight foodies and families alike, inviting guests on an immersive journey through the diverse world of culinary arts.

The main attraction is the Street Food Arena, dishing up global cuisines and cultural specialities.

Paella, pad Thai, wagyu burgers, wood-fired pizzas and pulled pork are just some of the mouth-watering options awaiting food enthusiasts.

In addition, guests can browse the Artisan Marketplace, hosting more than 100 traders.

Here, local produce, fresh-baked goods, handmade crafts and art will be showcased.

A range of independent bars will be available to quench visitors' thirsts, serving everything from specialised ciders, rums and gins, to wines and cocktails.

The event also features the Full Ale House, in partnership with Tyne-Bank Brewery, offering craft ales and cask favourites on draft.

Music lovers can look forward to plenty of live music.

Each day will be sound-tracked by a mixture of local bands, vocalists and choirs, along with tribute acts headlining each day.

Saturday, May 4, will see 'We Are Champion' paying homage to Queen, followed by ‘Laura as Taylor Swift’ on Sunday, May 5, and ‘I Am Meghan’ on Monday, May 6, paying tribute to pop sensation Meghan Trainor.

The festival's Live Cookery Theatre, hosted by MasterChef finalist Anthony O’Shaughnessy, promises to be a highlight.

Accompanied by a star-studded roster of cookery experts such as Troy Terrington of Dobson & Parnell and Joshua Sercombe of Blackfriars Cookery School, attendees will be guided on an gastronomic journey.

The event will provide a variety of entertainment options catered for all ages.

The Live Entertainers stage will feature daily performing arts and magic shows, alongside kids' activities such as quizzes.

For those seeking thrills, there will be funfair rides, as well as an Inflatable Land for the younger ones.

The festival's organisers anticipate thousands to join the celebration at the inaugural Newcastle Food & Drink Festival.

They hope the event will become a staple point on the community calendar for years to come, fostering a day of amusement tailored to all preferences.

The festival is partnering with Tyneside & Northumberland Mind, a charity dedicated to supporting community and mental health initiatives across the north.

In the hope of adding to the more than £100,000 already raised, donations can be made through various festival activities and optional contributions on all ticket sales.

Tickets and further information for the Newcastle Food & Drink Festival, taking place between May 4 and May 6, can be found at www.newcastlefoodanddrinkfestival.com.