Kilkenny to serve up one of Ireland’s tastiest ever food festivals

Kilkenny is prepping for the mother of all food festivals. With just 28 days remaining until Savour Kilkenny Food Festival kicks off, excitement is building for the culinary-packed October bank holiday weekend.

Now in its 16th year, Savour Kilkenny is set to be bigger and better than ever, boasting over 100 market stalls showcasing Artisan Food Producers and Street Food Vendors from across Ireland.

The festival will also welcome renowned chefs including Rachel Allen, JP MacMahon, Derry Clarke, Kevin Dundon, Gary O’Hanlon, Rory O’Connell, Edward Hayden, Anne Neary, James Kavanagh, and William Murray.

This year’s event promises a rich variety of experiences, from live cookery demonstrations, dining events, and hands-on workshops to thought-provoking talks and family-friendly entertainment. Attendees will also have the chance to engage with important topics, such as food waste, the circular economy, and the future of food in Ireland.

One of the festival’s highlights is a special event celebrating the legendary women who have made a significant impact on Kilkenny’s vibrant food scene. Moderated by Edward Hayden (pictured below), this discussion will feature Anne Neary, Helen Finnegan, Olivia Goodwillie, Julie Calder-Potts, Mary Walsh, and Mag Kirwan, each offering unique insights into their contributions to the culinary world.

Savour Kilkenny will host 20 exciting food and drink events, ensuring that there is something for every palate. Festival organisers are encouraging attendees to secure their tickets soon, as all events are expected to sell out. Among the highlights are:

• Exclusive Collaboration at Mount Juliet Estate: Executive Chef Andy Nolan teams up with renowned guest chef Kwanghi Chan for ‘A Taste of Two Worlds’ – a one-off dining experience at the award-winning Hound Restaurant;
• Bridgerton-themed Evening at Lyrath Estate: A glamorous night featuring a canapés and bubbles reception, followed by a five-course dinner with wine in the opulent surroundings of Lyrath Estate;
• A Taste of the Oscars at Mountain View: Indulge in a luxurious five-course tasting menu inspired by Hollywood’s finest, complete with live music and dancing, with transportation available to and from the venue
• Ballymaloe Reunion Dinner: Celebrated Ballymaloe chefs including Rory O’Connell and JR Ryall of Ballymaloe will host a sociable evening starting with oysters and Guinness, followed by a five-course set menu with wine at a ‘pop up’ in the stunning Medieval Mile Museum;
• Dine and Dance with Brian Redmond: RTÉ’s Dancing with the Stars”judge Brian Redmond returns for a fun-filled evening at the Hibernian Hotel’s Ember Restaurant. Guests will enjoy Chef Wesley Bearpark’s South African-inspired menu while learning to dance with Brian and Kate from The Dance Club Kilkenny;

John Brett of Oakpark Foods said: “Oakpark are extremely proud to partner with Savour Kilkenny this October Bank Holiday weekend. Our company has deep roots in Kilkenny and the Southeast and know the importance of the festival to the city.”

Elaine Brady of Coole Swan said: “Supporting this renowned festival is not just a privilege; it’s a testament to our commitment to celebrating Ireland’s rich culinary heritage.”
Jim Campion from Campion Insurance added: “We are lucky in Kilkenny to have so many great festivals happening each year, but as someone with a keen interest in food and the hospitality industry I particularly look forward to Savour Kilkenny. It is a great opportunity to meet people, explore and taste new foods and learn a few new tips for the kitchen!”

*Ticket prices for all dining and drinks events range from 12 to 130 euro plus booking fee. Entry to the Savour Market, cookery demos and talks on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th October are free. For tickets and the full schedule of events, visit www.savourkilkenny.com or @savourkilkenny on Instagram.

PHOTOS: Dylan Vaughan