Come and see us at Food & Drink festival

The Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival takes place this month. UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man will be there. Here’s a preview from the Isle of Man Food and Drink team, which organises it.

Why is the Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival so important to the Island’s culture and economy?

The Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival, sponsored this year by Peel Group, holds a deep-rooted connection to the Island's culture and economy. The use of locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes not only contributes to the preservation of Manx heritage but also supports local farmers, fishers and producers. 

The 2022 Festival saw thousands flock to the Villa Marina Gardens during the festival weekend in September to enjoy locally made produce, sample an array of flavours, watch cookery demonstrations and discover Manx-made crafts.

It was also revealed that the calculated domestic economic impact of the festival came to £324,297.00, approximately £45.79 per person. This showcases the importance of such events for the local economy.

A scene from the 2022 Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival

How did the Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival start and how has it grown?

The Festival was established to celebrate and showcase the island's rich culinary heritage, local produce, and vibrant food culture. The first-ever Food & Drink Festival had celebrity guest appearances from The Hairy Bikers (Si King and Dave Myers) with a Manx Bake Off to raise funds for charity.

Now in its 15th year, the festival is widely recognised as one of the Island’s biggest events, with last year’s festival attracting 10,000 food fans through its doors. Visitors will enjoy speciality stalls offering local food, drink, and crafts from across the Island alongside outdoor bars and live music.

Biosphere Partner Isle of Man Salt Co at the 2022 Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival

How does the festival support the Isle of Man Government’s commitments to climate, sustainability, active travel, Refill scheme and plastic reduction, etc?

Our Sustainability Area, sponsored by KPMG, includes interactive and educational resources promoting eco-friendly practices from various Isle of Man organisations, including Douglas Borough Council, Net Zero Isle of Man, UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man and Zero Waste Mann. This area designed to educate and inspire festival attendees to take proactive steps towards a more sustainable future. 

As well as showcasing its year-round work, UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man will run an activity with a local artist.

We are working with KPMG to review and assess the event’s carbon emissions, with a view to offsetting these in the future. By its nature, the festival already supports fewer carbon emissions through the reduced food miles of locally grown or reared Manx produce. The Festival has a commitment to sustainable practices, such as banning event retailers from using single-use plastics.

Why should people get this in their diaries and come along?

The Festival is a must-attend event, offering a delectable showcase of local flavours, culinary expertise, and cultural experiences. From chef demonstrations and workshops to family-friendly activities and live entertainment, our attendees can savour fresh local ingredients, learn from renowned chefs, and immerse themselves in the Isle of Man's food scene. Many Biosphere Partners will be showing off their wares.

Biosphere Partner Isle of Man Creamery at the 2022 Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival

Details

Saturday 16th & 17th September, Villa Marina Gardens, Douglas.

Open from 10am to 5pm on both days.

Book online to get your e-ticket at villagaiety.com

Look back:

Click here to look back on 14 years of Isle of Man Food & Drink Festivals.