British Food Fortnight is now in its 11th year. Usually held in autumn, in 2012 it’s been moved up to coincide with the many sporting festivities taking place in London this year. From July 27th to August 12th, people across the country can participate in British Food Fortnight events or throw their own celebrations. So how can you be a part of this exciting celebration of British ingredients and culinary heritage?

First, take a look at the British Food Fortnight events that are taking place in your area. If you live in Scotland, for instance, there are many farmers markets taking part in the festival, including in St Andrews, Glasgow, Aberdeen and even in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. In the south-west of England, lots of festivals – including the Poole Town and Country Show and the South Devon Crab Festival – are part of British Food Fortnight too. But London is home to some of the celebration’s most exciting events, including the Kingston Food Festival, the Made in Britain Food Market, and even Britain’s biggest beer festival.

However, it’s important to remember that you don’t need to attend a British Food Fortnight event to celebrate the occasion. Indeed, to truly appreciate great British cuisine, you need to do so in your home. Start by making a special effort to seek out British produce, especially ingredients that are in season. For example, spring is the perfect time to buy lamb, while squashes are at their best in autumn. If you’re not sure how to distinguish seasonal ingredients, there are several helpful tips and a downloadable chart at the British Food Fortnight website.

When you’re in your local supermarket, pay attention to the labels. Food that is grown in the UK should usually have a small union jack on its packaging, or indicate its origin in writing. Or try to avoid supermarkets altogether: speak to your local butcher, grocer or market stall holder about where their food comes from to try and understand a bit more about British food. They may also be able to give you tips on how to cook ingredients that you may be unfamiliar with.

If you’re not an experienced chef but you’re keen to celebrate British Food Fortnight by whipping up a British dish, rest assured that there are plenty of simple recipes to choose from. A good old Sunday roast is the most satisfying of meals, and it’s also one of the easiest: the hardest part is peeling the potatoes. Simply pay attention to your timings and keep basting your meat, and you’ll have a memorable meal with minimal fuss. And if you have any leftover beef from a beef roast, you can whip up a cottage pie the next day – simply top the beef with mashed potatoes, bake until browned on top and serve with seasonal green vegetables.

Many pubs and eateries are participating in British Food Fortnight, from Leeds restaurants to pubs in Cardiff. So wherever you are, you’ll be able to enjoy the celebrations in style.

Bruce Giles writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.