Week-long celebration to shine spotlight on Cheshire's rich heritage

A WEEK-long celebration is set to shine a spotlight on Cheshire's rich heritage and visitor appeal. Cheshire Day, officially marked on March 30, has grown into a full week of activities thanks to support from Marketing Cheshire, highlighting the region's £4 billion visitor economy. The theme for 2026, Made In Cheshire, encourages businesses to participate by sharing their stories, engaging with audiences, and showcasing what makes their offerings distinct and locally rooted. Jamie Christon, chair of marketing Cheshire and CEO of Chester Zoo, said: "We know the region's globally renowned visitor economy is worth £4bn and attracts millions of annual visitors so it's great to use the week-long Cheshire Day celebrations to shout about just what makes Cheshire so unique and a brilliant place to work, live and visit." Cheshire Day marks the anniversary of King Edward I granting the Charter of Liberties to Cheshire in 1300, a document often considered the county's own Magna Carta. The occasion has traditionally celebrated Cheshire's historical contributions, including its pivotal role in the industrial revolution and its claim to being home to the nation's first named cheese. This year's celebrations run from March 23 to 30. Confirmed events include an art exhibition at Tatton Park. The show explores the connection between artist Canaletto and Lord Samuel Egerton, the 18th-century Cheshire landowner who became immersed in Venice's art world during the 1730s. Food and drink are also at the heart of the week's activities, with special events and menus across the county. The Pheasant Inn in Tattenhall is offering a Cheshire Day menu from March 16 to 31, featuring dishes such as Joseph Heler Cheshire cheese rarebit tartlet and Cheshire pork. In Farndon, Restaurant 209, run by Felix Shore and Anna Roseblade, will recreate a 19th-century Cheshire Tart using locally sourced ingredients. Events celebrating the county's heritage include a 'Run for Nature' at Chester Zoo in support of UK wildlife, a one-off walking tour of Chester, and a candle-making and afternoon tea event at Capesthorne Hall. Visitors can also enjoy tastings of Cheshire cheeses and drinks at the Cheese Shop in Nantwich. The festivities will continue into the Easter weekend with the Cheshire and North Wales Food & Drink Festival. Taking place at Chester Racecourse from April 3 to 5, the festival promises a lively showcase of regional food and drink, with producers, chefs, and artisans coming together for a three-day celebration. Marketing Cheshire has created a free business toolkit to help organisations take part in Cheshire Day. All activity is promoted via Visit Cheshire channels and website. Businesses are encouraged to join the conversation online using the hashtag #CheshireDay. Further details about Cheshire Day, including event listings and ways to get involved, can be found at https://visitcheshire.com/locations/cheshire-day.