Photos: Vicky Comerford
Savour Kilkenny Food Festival was officially launched on Friday evening during a milestone gathering at Butler Gallery. Bringing together food producers, local businesses, special guests, and festival supporters, the celebration marked two decades of showcasing the very best of Kilkenny’s vibrant culinary scene on an international stage.
MC’d by Chef Edward Hayden, the launch event featured key addresses reflecting on the festival’s remarkable journey since its inception. Speakers included Mayor Andrew McGuinness, Cathaoirleach Joe Malone, and Festival Director Marian Flannery, all of whom highlighted the festival’s evolution into one of Ireland’s premier food festivals.
The evening concluded with an address from Ger Mullally, who announced that he will be stepping down as Chairperson following the conclusion of the 2026 festival, capping off 18 years of dedicated leadership to Savour Kilkenny.
A central highlight of the launch was the formal recognition and presentation honoring Savour Kilkenny’s founding 2006 committee. The trailblazing group comprising Paddy Friel (RIP), Olivia Goodwillie, Noel McCarron, Rhoda Nolan, Mark Gaffney, Eugene McSweeney, Anne Neary, and Kayrin Connery, was celebrated for its original vision of bringing Kinsale’s famed food culture model to Kilkenny.
“Reaching 20 years is a huge testament to our founding committee, our dedicated board and team, and the extraordinary food producers of Kilkenny,” said Marian Flannery, Festival Director. “This year’s line-up is our most exciting yet. With the additional support of Fáilte Ireland’s Strategic Festival Fund, we have been able to bring further animation to the concepts of harvest and samhain across Kilkenny, and we are thrilled to welcome everyone to celebrate this monumental anniversary with us in Ireland’s Medieval Capital.”
Taking place from October 22nd to October 26th, 2026, the 20th anniversary festival will feature over 90 events across Kilkenny City and County. Highlights include the iconic Festival Quarter hosting live cookery demonstrations, the Savour Market and Artisan Food Pavilion, the Craft Brewers and Distillers Marquee, and dynamic family entertainment throughout Saturday and Sunday.
Tickets Now On Sale
Tickets for all ticketed events including exclusive dining experiences, drinks tastings, expert talks, interactive workshops, and culinary tours are now officially on sale. Organisers advise booking early, as several high-profile dining and workshop events are already selling fast.
For full programme details and ticket purchases, visit www.savourkilkenny.com.
