Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival

Over 10,000 people attended the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture's 2018 Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival – a new record – beating last year's attendance of 8,500. The event is increasingly attracting visitors to the Island.

Manx queenies have been crowned as the Isle of Man’s new national dish following a public vote

The poll was run over a four month period by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, and saw over 2,500 votes cast.  Over 500 people voted for the Queen scallop, which has become synonymous with Manx cuisine.

In second place was chips, cheese and gravy with nearly 400 votes.

Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, Geoffrey Boot MHK, welcomed the result:

'This was a hard-fought race that led to some lively public debate.  It’s great to see so many people so passionate about Manx food.  The vote has helped to raise the profile of the variety of Manx produce available as well as cementing the quality of our products in the public consciousness'

Please see recipe for Manx Queenies with garlic and bacon in downloadable section.

Record attendance at Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival

Last year just over 8,500 people flocked to the festival contributing £230,000 to the local economy.

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: “This year’s event had even more great new local food products to enjoy, including five first-time exhibitors, plenty of opportunities to sample a massive range of local food and drink, plus lots of entertainment for all the family.

'The festival’s popularity reflects the growth in Isle of Man food and drink, which is being driven by my Department’s Food Matters strategy, and the growing interest and desire among people to support local food and drink producers and businesses.

Although organised by DEFA, the event only happens as a result of tremendous teamwork and efforts right across the food and drink sector. Everyone from the volunteer committee to our all-important sponsors, producers, retailers, caterers, and other volunteers come together to make the event the highlight of the calendar it is.'

There was a high standard among the 60 exhibitors, making the job of choosing the best stand difficult for the Minister and BBC One’s Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, the guest of honour at the festival.

They awarded the accolade to Close Leece Farm.

Feedback so far has highlighted that the festival is a great day out and praised the wide variety of local produce on sale, the opportunity to meet producers, and the relaxed atmosphere.

For year-round updates about the festival follow Food Matters on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Sponsorship is an important part of the Festival and if you are interested in knowing more please see Sponsorship opportunities in the downloadable documents.