The Taste of the Sea Festival took place for the fourth year in Maryport in August 2024 on a warm & sunny weekend, attracting record crowds estimated at 20,000!
Operated by Cumberland Council, ably led by Events officer Ellie Jones, the weekend proved a huge draw, bringing people in from far & wide to spend money at the event & in the town itself. This year’s event attracted more people from further away, with larger party numbers, both new & regular visitors, & longer staying times, as well as higher spending levels than has previously been seen at the event.
Satisfaction rates were double what they had been in 2023, with spending levels 35% higher than in 2023, which combined to produce an economic impact estimate of £1.5 million, almost double that of the previous year. The return on investment has been calculated at £21.99, so for every £1 invested in the festival this year, almost £22 was generated by the local economy!