Taking place in Waterford city from 12 to 14 September, highlights of the Waterford Harvest Festival will include The Big Taste in John Robert’s Square, the New Street garden party, picnic and play in the park and the Viking Rocks Craft Beerfest, as well as appearances from top chefs like Darina Allen in the Grow HQ Kitchen event.

“I am delighted that this year we are focusing on highlighting, promoting and supporting the food producers in the region,” says Paul Nolan, festival chair and group development manager at Dawn Meats.

Local producers

M&D Bakery: Founded in 1985 by brothers Dermot and Michael Walsh, M&D Bakery has played a huge part in making the blaa a trademark of Waterford. Indeed, it recently won a prestigious Eurotoque Taste award for uniqueness and quality. M&D Bakery goods are available throughout the Waterford area, including the larger retail stores and many smaller independent grocery shops and delis.

Gino’s Ice Cream: Having started making ice cream 27 years ago for its restaurants in Waterford and Cork, Gino’s entered the retail market in 2013 and now sells 500ml tubs in Londis Cleaboy, Ardkeen Quality Foods Stores and SuperValu in the Hypermarket and Tramore, as well as other local restaurants.

Elda Wild Irish Venison Ltd was established by Jason Conway in 2012. As well as promoting its taste, Jason is also an advocate of the nutritional benefits of venison. Four ounces of venison provides 82% of our daily protein needs at only 217 calories per serving.

The Coffee Warehouse: In 2012, Stephen and Mark Bergin invested in a full roasting plant to bring coffee roasting back to Waterford. As the only roaster in the southeast, they can personalise the coffee, creating a blend exclusive to each customer. CL