The St Albans & Harpenden Food and Drink Festival is just a couple of weeks away, and I have more events to tell you about.

One particular highlight I don’t want you to miss is dinner at beautiful St Michael’s Manor, hosted by William Sitwell, the editor of Waitrose Food Magazine and judge on MasterChef. William will be talking about his new book and interesting career on September 29.

Here are just some of the events you might like to book tickets for:

* Ready Steady St Albans, Poggenpohl Showroom, Wednesday September 28 7pm

This is a fantastic event that brings together three of our best local restaurants for you to try. In the smart demo kitchen, each chef will show you how they make a signature dish, and then share generous tasters with everyone. L’Italiana will prepare the starter, Phil Thompson is cooking the main course, and The Bakehouse are making dessert. Mokoko will provide welcome cocktails and Flagship Wines provide wine to go with the food. Mayor Frances Leonard will be challenged to try her food “heaven or hell” which will be cooked by chefs from St Michael’s Manor and shared with everyone. At just 22 a ticket, this is a great night out.

* An Evening with William Sitwell, editor of Waitrose Food Magazine, St Michael’s Manor, Fishpool Street, Thursday September 29, 7pm drinks, dinner at 7.30

A really special night in the festival. Over a four-course tasting menu, with welcome drinks, spend the evening with William Sitwell, editor of Waitrose Food and judge on MasterChef, talking about his new book Eggs or Anarchy, about how Minister of Food Lord Woolton fed Britain during the Second World War. The 49.50 ticket also includes a signed copy of the book.

* Food and Drink Quiz with Radio Verulam, Friday September 30, The Conservative Social Club, Hatfield Road, 7pm

Do you know your Ramsay from your Roquefort? There will be a buffet donated by Jon’s StrEATfood, who you might know from his fab van in the town centre. It’s just 10 per person, and you can have up to 6 on a team. Funds raised will go to Radio Verulam and Home Start. To book your table call Ian Rogers on 07714 145862.

* Mykitchensocial Supper Club, Saturday October 1, 7pm

Join seven complete strangers for supper with Mykitchensocial. You will have a truly home-made three-course Mexican/Asian-inspired meal, and meet new people in the area. For over 18s. There is only space for eight, so early booking is recommended. Tickets are 25 each, including a cocktail. BYOB. Email mykitchensocial@fastmail.com.

* St Albans Street Food Finale, city centre, Sunday October 2

A key date for your diary. I will do a full run-down of events on this day in my next feature.

* Harvest Festival , St Albans Cathedral, Sunday October 2, 9.30am

Taking place in the stunning cathedral, everyone is welcome to join in the harvest festival. Celebrate all that we have, and consider the challenge of how to help others around the world. There will be a food bank collection if you would like to take a donation.

There are many more events planned, so do look out for the free brochures around the area. All the info is also on enjoystalbans.com, and that’s where you go to get booking info and tickets (many events are free).