This spring, the charming harbour town of Dungarvan will once again host Waterford Festival of Food, Ireland’s longest-running celebration of food, community, and connection. Taking place from 25th to 27th April 2025, this highly anticipated event brings together locals and visitors to celebrate the rich food culture of the region, while fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.

Over 75,000 visitors are expected to flock to Dungarvan for this vibrant festival, which will showcase over 80 events that highlight the best of Waterford’s food heritage. Farmers, fishers, chefs, artisan producers, and food lovers will come together to celebrate sustainable practices and exceptional local produce, creating a dynamic atmosphere of discovery and enjoyment.

The festival’s programme, set to be officially launched on March 6th, promises a weekend filled with unmissable culinary experiences. Highlights include the bustling Quayside Market on Saturday and the lively Farmers Market on Sunday, as well as a variety of engaging events for all ages. Visitors can enjoy immersive food trails, farm visits, foraging adventures, and even a unique blend of wellness with sunset and sunrise yoga. For younger attendees, there’s a range of fun activities such as cake decorating, pizza making, and the ever-popular Cuddly Farm.

In addition, this year’s festival will feature a diverse lineup of visiting chefs, including Liam Finnegan, the Ashford Castle Team, Danni Barry (Ireland’s first female Michelin star chef), Aisling Moore, Aisling Larkin, Caitlin Ruth, Temple Garner, Luis Martin, Jonny Boyle, Paddy Lee, and Patrick Powell. These chefs will host masterclasses, pop-up dinners, and special lunches that will showcase the creativity and passion behind food in Ireland and the Waterford’s culinary scene.

The festival will also feature thought-provoking exhibitions, including the launch of ‘Sound Bites’, a new addition to this year’s event that builds on last year’s ‘Behind the Bite’ portrait exhibition. ‘Sound Bites’ will give visitors a chance to hear the stories of the hardworking people behind Waterford’s food industry, providing a deeper connection to the faces behind the food on our plates.

Sustainability, inclusivity, and respect for provenance are core values of the festival, ensuring that every event reflects the festival’s commitment to supporting the land, the sea, and the passionate people shaping the food culture in this extraordinary region.

Eunice Power, Festival Director, captures the essence of the event: “Waterford Festival of Food is about more than just incredible food—it’s about bringing people together, creating moments of joy, and appreciating the community that makes this region so special. The festival is a source of immense pride in our community and shines a light on the generosity, warmth, and talent here in Waterford.”

Beyond the festival itself, the event plays a vital role in supporting the local economy, providing a platform for small producers, and positioning Waterford as a leading food destination. Oren Byrne, President of the Dungarvan and West Waterford Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes its impact: “The festival is a major boost for the region, attracting visitors who explore our restaurants, cafés, and shops. It’s an opportunity to showcase what makes Waterford so special and share our food culture with the world.”

With an exciting lineup of events for all ages, the 2025 festival promises an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s indulging in freshly shucked oysters by the quay, engaging in discussions on the future of food, or simply soaking up the welcoming atmosphere of Dungarvan’s streets, the Waterford Festival of Food invites everyone to gather, feast, and connect.

For more information, the full programme of events, and booking details, visit www.waterfordfestivaloffood.com