Over 600 Visitors Flock to SmokieFest for Record-Breaking Celebration.
SmokieFest 2025 has been declared a monumental success, with organisers reporting an
attendance of over 600 people who gathered at the Signal Tower in Arbroath on Sunday to
celebrate the famous Arbroath Smokie, despite some challenging weather conditions.
The free, family-focused festival, delivered by Appetite for Angus and supported by Seagreen,
exceeded all expectations, transforming the historic area or Arbroath into a lively hub of food,
music, and heritage.
The day was filled with activities, with crowds gathering to watch the popular chef
demonstrations by Hayley Wilkes of WeeCook, which showcased innovative ways to
incorporate the smoked fish into modern cuisine. Smokie Rilettes and Smokie Pho were
favourites with the gathered crowds. The sea shanty workshops led by Joss Cameron and the
traditional stories shared by the Auchmithie Haar Ladies proved to be major highlights,
immersing visitors in the rich maritime history of the area.
A particular highlight of the day was a surprise visit from Smokie Joe, the famous mascot of
Arbroath FC, who posed for photos and caused mischief amongst the crowds.
Fiona Walsh, co-ordinator of Regional Food Group, Appetite for Angus says “We are absolutely
delighted that over 600 people chose to spend their Sunday with us at the Signal Tower. The
turnout is a fantastic testament to the enduring appeal of the Arbroath Smokie and the strong
sense of community we have here in Arbroath. From the bustling local producers’ market to the
brilliant live music from Zack Gibson, the atmosphere was electric and truly celebrated
everything that makes this area special. Of course, the weather got in the way of some of our
plans including the boat trips to the Bellrock but that didn’t dampen the spirits too much”
The event successfully showcased local talent and enterprise, with vendors reporting brisk
sales for food, drink, and crafts. The Arbroath Smokie Trail also saw many visitors explore local
fishmongers and cafes, boosting trade across the town.
Organisers are already looking ahead to next year, aiming to build on the success of SmokieFest
2025 and continue celebrating Arbroath’s beloved culinary star.