Taste of Kildare returns this August
Paul Leneghan, Minister Martin Hayden, Jacqui McNabb, David Kelly, Cathaoirleach Carmel Kelly, Minister James Lawless, Sonya Kavanagh Aisling Larking, Ted Robinson.
TASTE of Kildare officially launched its 2026 festival programme on Friday, 12 June at Naas Racecourse, bringing together some of Ireland's leading voices in food, travel and hospitality for an exclusive preview of this year's event.
Hosted by TV chef and broadcaster Aisling Larkin, the launch lunch featured a panel discussion entitled "Beyond the Plate: How Food Has Become About Experiences, Stories and Destination", exploring the increasingly important role food plays in tourism, hospitality and community.
The discussion featured Jacqui McNabb, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at Local Enterprise Office Kildare, renowned travel writer and broadcaster Eoghan Corry, Hartes Group co-owner Paul Leneghan and chef, author and television personality Gina Daly.
Stakeholders, sponsors, media and festival participants gathered for the event, enjoying a gourmet lunch prepared by Lily & Wild while receiving an exclusive preview of what visitors can expect when Taste of Kildare returns to Naas Racecourse on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August.
Speaking at the launch, Davina and Kevin Walsh of Lily & Wild said “We are delighted to once again support Taste of Kildare as event sponsors. As proud members of Into Kildare, we are passionate about championing local businesses, producers, and the vibrant hospitality sector. Taste of Kildare provides an invaluable platform to showcase the exceptional quality, creativity and talent that exists across the county's food and tourism industries.” Brought to you by Into Kildare and supported by Kildare County Council, Taste of Kildare celebrates the very best of the county's food and drink offering, bringing together leading chefs, artisan producers, restaurants and food lovers for a weekend of demonstrations, tastings and family-friendly entertainment.
Speaking at the launch, David Kelly, Chair of Into Kildare, said:
"Taste of Kildare has become one of the highlights of the county's calendar and a wonderful showcase for the people, businesses and producers that make Kildare such a vibrant destination. Food has the power to bring communities together and tell the story of a place, and that's exactly what Taste of Kildare aims to do. We're looking forward to welcoming visitors from across Kildare and beyond to Naas Racecourse this August for what promises to be another fantastic celebration of food, drink and hospitality."
Jacqui McNabb, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Kildare, added:
"Kildare has developed an exceptional food and drink offering and events such as Taste of Kildare play an important role in supporting local businesses, producers and the wider visitor economy. The festival provides a platform to showcase the quality, innovation and passion that exists across the county and reinforces Kildare's growing reputation as a destination for food tourism and experiences."
Tickets for Taste of Kildare 2026 are on sale now, with adult tickets priced from €15 while children under 10 can attend free of charge.
Visitors can enjoy two days of chef demonstrations on our Calor Gas Chef stage, artisan food and drink producers, tastings and family entertainment, all set against the backdrop of one of Ireland's most iconic racecourses.
Tickets are available now at: https://tasteofkildare.ie/tickets/
