Cong Food Village Festival officially launched its 2026 programme on Friday, June 12, at Lydon's Lodge Hotel, Cong, marking the beginning of what promises to be another outstanding year for the west of Ireland's largest food festival.
Cong was buzzing with activity as over 140 guests gathered to celebrate the launch of the 2026 festival. Hosted and sponsored by Lydon's Lodge Hotel, the evening showcased everything that Cong Food Village stands for: exceptional food, warm hospitality, and strong community spirit.
Carlos Gordo and Silvia Fernandes treated guests to an impressive culinary showcase, while Stephen, Olga and the team at Lydon's Lodge Hotel ensured everyone received a memorable welcome. The event was a fitting celebration of the festival's return and a wonderful preview of what lies ahead this July.
The festival was officially launched by festival ambassador and celebrity chef Sarah Butler, whose ongoing support and commitment have played an important role in the growth and success of Cong Food Village.
The festival takes place on Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12. Set against the stunning backdrop of historic Cong Abbey, the festival has grown into the largest food festival in the west of Ireland and continues to be one of the highlights of the region's summer calendar.
Now in its seventh year, the festival celebrates Ireland's rich and diverse food culture, bringing together artisan producers, acclaimed chefs and food enthusiasts from across the country. At the heart of the event will be the main festival marquee on the abbey grounds, where more than 50 food and craft producers will showcase their products alongside two professional demonstration kitchens featuring a packed programme of live cooking demonstrations.
Among the culinary highlights are festival ambassador and celebrity chef Sarah Butler, RTÉ celebrity chef Jeeny Maltese, renowned restaurateur and author JP McMahon, executive head chef of The Lodge at Ashford Castle Jonathan Keane, and executive head chef of Ashford Castle Liam Finnegan, all of whom will take to the stage throughout the weekend.
While food remains the festival's centrepiece, the event offers something for all ages. Families can enjoy a variety of engaging activities, including drumming workshops with Drumadore, hands-on experiences at Lislinn Miniature Farm, creative workshops with Fuinnseog Woodland Crafts, Go Wild Forest School will take families on guided nature walks through Cong's beautiful woodland surroundings.
New for 2026 is Pobal Beag, a dedicated space for talks and workshops exploring topics such as growing, gardening, sustainability and storytelling. Highlights include Give It a Grow with well-known gardening expert Padraic Horkan.
"We are delighted to welcome the return of the Cong Food Village Festival," said Mairéad Geehan, project manager of Cong Food Village. "This year's programme brings together an exceptional line-up of chefs and outstanding food and craft producers from across Ireland. We are particularly excited to introduce two new areas for 2026 – Pobal Beag, which will host engaging talks and hands-on workshops, and the Abbey Sessions Music Quarter, featuring Mark Spellman, Stephen Monaghan and Friends, alongside some of the village's rising musical stars.
"This event is a true celebration of local spirit, and we are deeply grateful to the Cong business community for their continued support," she continued. "The festival simply would not be possible without their generosity. We would also like to sincerely thank our principal sponsors, Fáilte Ireland and Mayo County Council, along with our supporting sponsor and long-term partner, Ashford Castle Estate. We look forward to welcoming visitors and locals alike for what promises to be a fantastic weekend of food, workshops, music and entertainment."
With its unique blend of exceptional food, local talent, family-friendly activities and a remarkable heritage setting, the Cong Food Village Festival 2026 promises an unforgettable weekend for visitors and residents alike.
