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.
The event, sponsored by PokerStars and held in the Villa Marina gardens on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 September, serves to showcase the finest Manx produce.
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.
Visitors are invited to give their feedback on the festival via www.gov.im/food.
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 or visit http://iomfoodanddrink.com.
The 2018 Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival was also sponsored by Dave’s Delicious Dogs, Event Management Solutions, Magnet, Shoprite, Thai Thai Restaurant, and The Buchan School with 3 FM as media partner.
