LIWSF PREVIEW: After hours

Everyone knows that the LIWSF’s closing times mean nothing at all. The staff at Excel may insist on stands shutting down at 6pm, but a mind-boggling array of events, dinners and parties mean that once the fair starts on Tuesday morning, it barely pauses for the next three days.

Last year’s Buddies of the Benevolent Camden Park Steak-Out was such a success that it is probably already safe to refer to it as a wine fair tradition, and the must-attend event on Wednesday night. It will grow slightly this year, but follow the same format (including the legendary steak eating competition). BOB chairman and managing director of Orbital Wines Nick Dymoke-Marr adds, however, “we have a few more tricks up our sleeves”, hinting at features such as a pool shootout. Proceeds from tickets go to The Benevolent, but will be limited, so booking early is essential.

Tuesday evening’s exhibitors party is another must, for those who are invited, and will once again be held at The Fox at Excel. The annual Stratford’s New World Barbeque will also be held on the Tuesday evening of the fair.

Far more parties and dinners will undoubtedly be announced in the coming weeks – only sleep will be in short supply during those three days in May.