In September, I embarked on a big adventure: my first longer-distance, multi-day event at the All Things Fungi Festival! As a newcomer to long drives, I was both excited and a little nervous, but I packed up my car with all my British wildlife products and set off from South Wales to West Sussex. It was a drive full of anticipation what the weekend would bring, and nerves as I am a one lady band with no team to bring along.
Arriving in Sussex a day before the festival opened, I got right to work setting up my stand. It was my first time preparing for a three-day event, and the experience of setting up everything—from arranging my larger than usual display to showcasing my new fungi-themed products—felt exhilarating. I had designed a collection of brand-new items specifically for this festival, including a vibrant Fungi tea towel, a cute Amethyst Deceiver enamel pin, and a Scarlet Elf-Cup Iron-on patch, all inspired by the magical world of fungi. Seeing everything come together, I was filled with a sense of accomplishment and some nervous anticipation that it would all go down well.
The festival itself, which ran from Friday through Sunday, had a fantastic atmosphere. It drew people from near and far, with some visiting for the day and others camping out on-site for the whole weekend. The community spirit was palpable, and there was a constant buzz of excitement in the air. My stall was nestled among a variety of other traders, and we were surrounded by food stalls serving some of the most mouth-watering dishes I’ve ever had. As a mushroom lover, I couldn’t resist indulging in the incredible mushroom-based meals. From rich Oyster mushroom burgers to loaded chips of my dreams with shitati mushrooms and nettle mayonaise, I was in culinary heaven. Each meal seemed more delicious than the last, and the food alone was worth the trip!
One of the unique highlights of the event was the lineup of workshops and guided walks - sadly as I was working I did not get to take part but I loved hearing everyones stories. Participants were given the chance to explore the surrounding woodlands and fields, learning to identify different species of fungi and discover the hidden world beneath our feet. These walks were educational and inspiring, deepening everyone's appreciation for the role fungi play in the ecosystem. Alongside the foraging expeditions, there were plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts, making the entire experience truly immersive.
The festival also had live music, which brought a lively energy to the evenings hidden away in a forest stage. Throughout the weekend, I met so many wonderful people—customers who shared their love for wildlife, fellow traders with a passion for the natural world, and enthusiasts who inspired me with their knowledge of fungi. The sense of shared interests and appreciation for British wildlife created a strong bond between everyone there.
I feel incredibly grateful and proud of myself for the experience. Not only did I step out of my comfort zone by traveling such a long distance for the first time, but I also had the joy of being part of an event that celebrated something so close to my heart. The All Things Fungi Festival was a place of discovery, indulgence, and connection, and I’m already looking forward to returning next year and taking part in even more of the festival.
If you ever get the chance to attend, I highly recommend it! Whether you’re a fungi enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone who simply enjoys a weekend filled with great food, learning, and wonderful company, this festival has something for everyone. Plus, if you do come, be sure to stop by my stall—I’ll have even more exciting products inspired by the enchanting world of fungi! Until then, I’ll be dreaming of mushroom feasts and planning new designs to share next year.
