Flavours of Christmas brings Worsbrough together in a festive celebration of food and culture

People of all ages and backgrounds came together for a joyful evening of food, music, and Barnsley’s rich heritage at the Flavours of Christmas food and cultural festival. 

The event was filled with festive cheer and showcased Barnsley’s rich cultural heritage, featuring dishes from around the world, live entertainment from young violinists from Barnsley Academy, Barnsley Brass, a dance performance from the Ukrainian British Friendship Group, and a magical Santa’s Grotto for families. 

Funded by a Unity and Inclusion Grant from Barnsley Council’s Love Where You Live program, the event aimed to strengthen community cohesion, reduce isolation, and celebrate diversity. People from all walks of life came together to share food and friendship. 

Councillor Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities, said:  

“Flavours of Christmas is a wonderful example of how food and culture can bring people together. 

“It’s about creating a sense of belonging and pride in our communities, and I’m delighted to see so many residents enjoying this celebration of unity and inclusion. Love Where You Live is about championing the projects, places and people who make us proud of where we live.” 

The event was organised by the Worsbrough Ward Alliance and Barnsley Council’s Central Area Team, working alongside partners including Barnsley Borough City of Sanctuary, Refugee Council, ELSH, Ward Green Baptist Church and Worsbrough Sports and Development Association. Local food businesses and volunteers played a key role, providing dishes and helping to make the day a success. 

Highlights of the event included a food trail with tasting stations, encouraging residents to try new dishes. There was so much on offer like, Injera, a meat, vegetable and potato curry from Eritrea in Africa, Persian potato chicken salad from Iran and some delicious cakes from the Ukraine. 

We were also delighted to be joined by the Barnsley Schwäbisch Gmünd Twin Town Society who provided glühwein mulled wine and stollen, a Christmas bread packed with dried fruit and marzipan. 

The success of Flavours of Christmas reflects Barnsley’s commitment to fostering unity and inclusion.  

Community groups and organisations can apply for a Unity and Inclusion Grant of up to £5,000 – or £10,000 over two years - to support projects that bring people together and celebrate diversity. You can find out more about these grants and how to apply by emailing areateamsupport@barnsley.gov.uk. 

With initiatives like Love Where You Live, Barnsley Council is supporting projects that bring people together, celebrate what makes us unique, and help our communities grow stronger and more connected.  

Feeling part of where you live, and the people around you, are what makes Barnsley feel like home. Together, we can make a difference and show our pride in where we live. 

To find out more and get involved with the Love Where You Live program, visit barnsley.gov.uk/LoveWhereYouLive.