Waterford Festival of Food goes down a treat with over 75,000 visitors
Alexandru Vacarciuc from Sugar Mamas pictured at the Waterford Festival of Food. Photo: Joleen Cronin
More than 75,000 people descended on West Waterford this past weekend for the Waterford Festival of Food.
That is according to early footfall tallies from businesses in Dungarvan, where the festival was centred.
It is expected that the festival boosted the local economy by a whopping €2.5 million.
Festival CEO Eunice Power said the festival has a critical role in the region's identity and development.
“This festival is much more than a weekend celebration.
“It is a long-term investment in our food ecosystem.
"It strengthens local businesses, encourages young people into the industry, and puts Waterford firmly on the map as a world-class food destination.
"By celebrating local gastronomy, we are laying the foundations for sustainable economic and community growth. I’d like to sincerely thank all of our sponsors, who helped make it all possible,” said Mr Power.
The festival ran from Friday, April 25, to Sunday, April 27.
Banquets, bake-offs, and coastal feasts enthralled locals, families and visitors. and more The festival is in its 16th year and boasts having some of Ireland's top chefs, local producers and food attractions.
Highlights included a stunning coastal dining experience aboard a fishing vessel with Aishling Moore (Goldie), a serene wellness retreat at Salterbridge House with Aisling Larkin, and a wild food masterclass with Liam Finnegan of Ashford Castle.
Patrick Lee, Caitlin Ruth, Patrick Powell, Danni Barry, Temple Garner, Luis Martin, and Johnny Boyle also left their mark on the sold-out programme.
In addition to the culinary delights, the festival had a series of food talks and storytelling events.
While the heart of the festival was very much at Dungarvan harbour, there were also events taking place in Lismore, Ardmore, Villierstown, Cappoquin, Ballyduff, and Kilmeaden.
The festival organisers collaborated with Autism Friendly Dungarvan to ensure accessibility and inclusivity remained central to the festival’s ethos.
Clear accessibility markers, a mobile sensory unit, accessible toilets, and inclusive cookery demos ensured the festival was welcoming for all.
For more, visit www.waterfordfestivaloffood.com or follow @waterfordfestivaloffood on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.
