The Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival Grows in Popularity

The annual Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival has grown in recent years to become one of the most popular events on the Island's calendar, drawing inspiration from various local producers who continue to support this annual festival.

With the introduction of an innovative weekend pass and a special evening of street food and live music, there was plenty of time to saunter leisurely amongst a dazzling display of locally sourced food and drink.

Centrally located within the Island's capital, this family-friendly event held an appeal for every generation, including hands-on experiences for children to widen their knowledge of the food and drink cycle. Many were attracted to The Children's Centre marquee adjacent to a group of inquisitive goats, practical cow milking demonstrations and the Isle of Man Beekeepers Federation.

The Villa Marina gardens were filled with a large number of caterers, providing succulent Manx Loaghtan lamb to the hot and spicy temptations of the African continent.

Many food enthusiasts also headed for the Manx Produce Marquee, burgeoning with gastronomic delights and lip-smacking goodies to tempt the palette of visiting connoisseurs; featuring produce from both the land and the sea.

This was supplemented by a number of stalls linked to the theme of food, including crafts, books and wheat-free food items.

And if that wasn't enough, there was a varied programme of entertainment on both days and the ever popular Manx Food Theatre, featuring local personalities, food outlets, competitions and celebrated Manx Chef Colin Clague.

Valerie Caine
© September 2015