London's First Major Pickle Festival 'The Big Brine' Hits Hackney This September
A major new culinary event dedicated entirely to pickles is set to transform east London this September. The Big Brine festival will bring an exciting lineup of chef demonstrations, live music performances, and hands-on fermentation workshops to Hackney Bridge on September 12-13, 2026.
Fermentation Celebration
Founders Clarice Downes and Emma Winstanley have created this unique festival to celebrate the art of brining and pickling. The self-funded event will feature artisanal kimchi makers, experimental fermenters, and some of the United Kingdom's most innovative chefs creating dishes with vinegary twists.
Among the featured culinary experts will be Mob Kitchen's Ayala Daly, who will host a dedicated demonstration stage for festival attendees curious about perfecting pickled aperitifs and preservation techniques.
Weekend of Pickled Programming
The festival promises a full weekend of activities including:
- Live chef demonstrations showcasing pickling techniques
- Interactive fermentation workshops for all skill levels
- Artisanal food vendors specializing in preserved foods
- Musical performances and DJ sets throughout both days
As Saturday evening approaches on September 12, the festival will transition into a vibrant night celebration with live DJ sets and drag performances continuing late into the night.
Location and Ticket Information
The Big Brine will take over Hackney Bridge at Units 1-28 of the Echo Building on East Bay Lane, postcode E15 2SJ. Tickets are priced at £20 each and will become available for purchase starting April 28, 2026.
While London has previously hosted smaller fermentation-focused events, including an annual autumn gathering at Deptford's Dog & Bell pub, The Big Brine represents the city's first major dedicated pickle festival of this scale and scope.
The festival organizers aim to create an immersive experience that celebrates both traditional preservation methods and contemporary culinary innovation, bringing together food enthusiasts from across London and beyond for a unique weekend celebration of all things brined and pickled.
