These are a few of my favourite festivals…

Electric Picnic is the best example how a festival can encompass music, food, fun and more. Food festivals are a great way for new producers to introduce their new creations, for new restaurants and chefs to reach a wider audience and for food lovers to discover new treasures and to join other food lovers to celebrate the best of Irish food.

Here’s a list of my favourite festivals:

The first one is a new one to me though – I just came across it when I searched for upcoming festivals. The Red Cup Carnival is taking place this Saturday in Dublin’s StillGarden Distillery with BBQ, drink and music. I won’t be able to make it but it sounds like great fun and who doesn’t love a good BBQ?

Kilmore Quay Seafood Festival is happening 13–16 July in Wexford. The Seafood Platter Competition to find the best in local restaurants sounds like a treat. The full programme has not yet being published (at time of writing) but based on past events, you can expect something for everyone.

The EatYard Cheese & Wine Festival in Dublin opens its doors on 10 August until 13 August – days filled with tastings of beautiful cheeses, delicious wine, demos and music – what more does a greedy soul need?

Cork on a Fork Festival is taking place from 16–20 August and I can’t wait to see this year’s full programme. Last year, I enjoyed a beautiful afternoon tea in the Metropole Hotel that was inspired by Maharani Gin (made right in the heart of the city by Rebel City Distillery). One event that caught my eye is the collaboration between L’Atitude 51 and NeighbourFood called Cork in a Paella. Weather permitting, a make-shift kitchen will be set up on the boardwalk at Union Quay serving up paella, wines (of course) and other nibbles. It will be difficult again to choose from the vast programme but I will try my best. Hope to see you there.

Part of the Cork on a Fork Festival, but an interesting event nevertheless is the Feeding Cork Conference. Hosted by the Cork Food Policy Council, the conference invites people who have an interest in creating and producing healthier and sustainable food. These conferences are a great resource to connect with like-minded people but also learning about new methods and initiatives to create a better system in food production.

The Waterford Harvest Festival is one of my favourite festivals I have to admit. The whole town comes together to showcase the best Waterford has to offer. Mark your calendar from 8–10 September to plan your trip. Special dining events, panel discussions, tasting trails and artisan markets are just some of the highlights of the longstanding festival.

The Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival is returning in September (22–24) with a seafood trail, a competition on opening oysters as well as loads of cooking demos. Galway is always worth a trip but especially when Irish seafood is celebrated.