The Taste of Kildare Festival of Food & Drink returned with a triumphant celebration of food, culture, and community at Naas Racecourse from September 20th to 22nd. Brought to you by Into Kildare and supported by Ballymore and Kildare County Council’s Local Enterprise Office, the festival attracted thousands of attendees eager to experience the best of Kildare’s culinary scene, artisan craftsmanship, and lively entertainment.
The festival, which was created by Into Kildare, the Kildare Tourism Board, featured a vibrant mix of live cookery demonstrations, artisan food stalls, a bustling craft market, and live music, creating a weekend full of fun and flavour. Local hotels and restaurants showcased their best dishes, offering visitors an opportunity to sample Kildare’s rich culinary heritage.
Áine Mangan, CEO of Into Kildare, expressed her delight at the festival’s success, stating, “We were thrilled with the turnout; there were thousands of people at Taste of Kildare over the weekend, and there really was something for everyone. From the culinary drama in the Calor Chef’s Theatre to live music and family fun on the Bord na Móna Family Fun Day, it was truly great and shows there is a real appetite for a festival such as this. We are delighted to have worked with Naas Racecourse on this festival and to have been able to support our tourism, hotel, and restaurant members. Into Kildare will continue to promote Kildare to our domestic and international markets and we are happy that Taste of Kildare has created a great platform for our members to promote their offerings.”
The weekend kicked off on a glamorous note with a VIP event at the Ballymore suite, where notable figures from media, business, and politics gathered to enjoy a taste of the signature dishes available throughout the weekend. The event set the tone for a weekend of indulgence, connection, and celebration of all that Kildare has to offer.
One of the festival highlights was the exclusive Harvest Dining experience held at the main racecourse restaurant, where 130 guests were treated to a spectacular eight-course meal inspired by the autumn harvest. The feast featured dishes inspired by some of Kildare’s most renowned establishments, including Cliff at Lyons, The Springfield Hotel, The Courtyard Hotel, The Club at Goffs, Killashee Hotel, Fairmont Carton House, and Barberstown Castle. Lily & Wild provided the catering, while The K Club’s exclusive Barton & Guestier wine complemented the meal, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Among the guests were 12 influential UK meeting and incentive buyers hosted by Into Kildare. The buyers, who stayed three nights at Springfield Hotel, Killashee, and Barberstown Castle, also explored Kildare’s top visitor attractions, including the Curragh Racecourse, the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens, The K Club, Carton House, a barge trip in Sallins and a visit to Lawlor’s Hotel. Impressed by the festival and the county’s hospitality, the buyers left with a deep appreciation for Kildare’s offerings, marking the event as a key showcase for Kildare’s tourism potential.
Throughout the weekend, festival-goers were treated to a diverse range of activities and entertainment. The Calor Chef’s Theatre hosted live cooking demonstrations by some of Ireland’s top chefs, drawing crowds eager to learn new culinary techniques and enjoy the spectacle of expert cooking in action. The festival grounds buzzed with live music performances, creating a joyful atmosphere that kept visitors entertained.
Sunday’s Bord na Móna Family Fun Day was a hit, providing family-friendly activities that delighted children and adults alike. From face painting and games to interactive displays and demonstrations, the day was filled with fun, learning, and the spirit of community.
The Taste of Kildare Festival 2024 not only celebrated the county’s culinary talents but also highlighted the broader cultural and tourism offerings that make Kildare a must-visit destination. With a successful turnout and positive feedback from both local attendees and international visitors, the festival has once again proven itself as a vital platform for promoting Kildare’s food, hospitality, and community spirit. For more information, visit www.intokildare.ie and www.tasteofkildare.ie
