The Wicklow Naturally food and drink network, with the support of Wicklow County Council, will run the annual October Feast Festival from Saturday 12th to Thursday 31st October. With close to 30 events organised over the month, October Feast showcases the various foods and flavours that are produced here in Wicklow.
Events include local food markets, winery and brewery tours, cooking demos, food tastings, foraging, nature walks and much more. Most events are open to the public but need pre-booking, the full details of which can be found on www.wicklownaturally.ie
The Garden of Ireland is home to some of Ireland’s finest food and drink producers. From growing and foraging to brewing and distilling, County Wicklow is proudly unearthing its food and drink story with ‘Wicklow Naturally’.
This year's flagship event includes a venison cooking demonstration as the centrepiece of a Wicklow themed supper. This event is in partnership with the Wicklow Climate Action team to coincide with Climate Action week. Venison is one of Wicklow’s most sustainable meats, and the event will include a supper entirely cooked with Wicklow ingredients. In attendance during the demonstration will include commentators on food, drink and environmental issues.
Cllr. Paul O’Brien, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council said, “Wicklow Naturally offers a fantastic opportunity to learn and taste the fantastic array of what is produced here in Wicklow. This is also a great way entice Wicklow residents to buy local and eat local.”
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman, commented, “October Feast fits perfectly within the Wicklow Food and Beverage strategy. The Wicklow Naturally brand and the food and drink producers have a particular focus on food sustainability and this event is a great opportunity to raise awareness on what is produced here in Wicklow.”
Pamela Walsh, Chairman of Wicklow Naturally and owner of Wicklow Way Wines added: “The diversity of what is produced here in Wicklow is amazing - from local foods such as Wicklow Lamb, cheeses, honeys or rapeseed oil, to imported raw ingredients turned into delicious products such as chocolates, coffees or sauces. October Feast is the perfect opportunity to experience them all.”