TASTE of Kildare is coming to Naas Racecourse from September 20th to 22nd.

There is no racing at the track on those days but it’s still worth dropping in. This event was staged during racing at the Curragh in September 2022 and if you were there you wouldn’t forget it easily - the Champions Hall was filled with food stands and buzzing with activity.

Organised by Into Kildare, the tourism board for Co Kildare, and supported by Ballymore, the Taste of Kildare Festival is now in its third year. It will feature over 100 partners, offering everything from traditional Irish dishes to innovative Asian-inspired creations.

Attendees can expect a bustling array of food stalls filled with creations from dozens of skilled local artisans. Renowned chefs will take to the stage to demonstrate their culinary prowess, and industry experts will lead engaging workshops for those looking to refine their culinary skills.

The festival will not only be a feast for the palate but also a celebration for the senses. Guests can immerse themselves in the fun atmosphere with live music, communal dining, and the opportunity to share stories and experiences. Each session over the three-day event promises to entertain, feed, and delight attendees with a lineup of activities including oyster and champagne tastings, local craft beer and artisanal cake pairings, spit roasts, barbecues, cocktails and afternoon teas.

The event will feature a star-studded lineup of chefs including Rachel Allen, Derry Clarke, Gary O’Hanlon, Ross Lewis, Martin Shanahan, Natalie Collins, Jordan Bailey, Holly White, Mindi Keane, Duro Vdovic, Melissa McCabe and Martin Lewis among others, who will showcase their skills through cooking demonstrations and talks.

The whole area at Naas Racecourse will be laid out into different zones. Areas include Tastes of the World, The Terrace, BBQ Experience, Harvest Lunch Experience, The Cocktail Bar and The VIP Garden Area and VIP Lounge. There is also a Food Truck Village, Music Stage and the Bord Na Móna Family and Kids Zone.

Participating restaurants include Neighbourhood Naas, Springfield Hotel, Cliff at Lyons, The Glenroyal, Fallon’s of Kilcullen, Lock 13, Silken Thomas, Harte’s of Kildare, The K Club, The Club at Goffs, Barberstown, Saba, Ballymore Inn, The Dewdrop Inn, Killashee Hotel, The Osprey Hotel, Carton House, Ely Wine Bar, Lock 13, Lily and Wild, Orby’s by Lucy and Lemongrass Fusion to mention just a few. Meanwhile, various food trucks will showcase their wares offering guests everything from seafood to gourmet burgers, to Asian feasts.

Sunday, September 22nd, is a dedicated family day, with children under 12 admitted free. Families are encouraged to pre-register on the Taste of Kildare website in advance. The family day will be packed with family-oriented activities, making it the perfect outing for those looking to enjoy a fun and educational experience. Family-friendly entertainment and great live bands who will perform over the weekend include Smash Hits, The Victory Dolls and Spring Break.

General admission tickets are priced at €15, parking is free and there will be a shuttle bus service operating from Naas town centre.