Seafoodfestival thenext big city event

The giant marquee will again host some of the region’s most talented chefs, cooking up the best in locally sourced produce, and with pirates, mermaids and salty sailors aplenty, music and a host of children’s fishy activities, this year’s festival promises to be a favourite for both the young and food lovers alike.

Organised by Derry City Council, the Flavours of the Foyle is sponsored by the Loughs Agency and DARD under the NI Regional Food Programme and is delivered with support from Food NI. The theme of the event is ‘Caught Here not Brought Here’ focusing on the many culinary treasures found in our local waters.

Mayor Brenda Stevenson said: “The success of the Flavours of the Foyle Festival has been built upon year on year and coupled with the recent LegenDerry Food Festival over the St Patricks weekend, we can be sure to expect a first class family friendly event.

“Children of all ages can enjoy Food NI’s Taste Adventure and Loughs Agency Riverwatch Touch tank. Whilst younger visitors will enjoy free arts and crafts, all ages can appreciate the comedy on offer with Lobster a la Carte, and the singing Cod Choir as this year’s Flavours of the Foyle brings with it a flurry of entertainment. Youngsters will appreciate street theatre and storytelling with ‘fishy tales’, Spreya the beautiful Mermaid, Giant Lobsters, roving pirates and sailors plus a whole host of other fun activities throughout the two days.”

Tourism Officer with Derry City Council, Mary Blake, said: “The LegenDerry Maritime Festival and hosting the Clipper Race stopover has emphasised the importance of our River to the city and the North West region.

“Again we are using the river in order to boost the North West as a food and travel destination and it is vital that we translate this message to all including our young people.

“Live cookery demonstrations from some of the best chefs across the region at the boulevard of Chefs will provide the best culinary delights sourced from our shores whilst a host of family entertainment throughout each day will ensure to keep the children amused.”

With a full programme of children events on offer, Mary said, “Kids will be sure to get into the spirit as they absorb the street entertainment as they get a chance to be a part of it. Watch out too for the juggling chefs, face painting and fishy arts and crafts. Come support local produce and enjoy a great day out.”

Celebrity chefs Brian McDermott, Noel McMeel and Paula McIntyre will be offering cooking demonstrations and local restaurants throughout the city will also be supporting the Seafood campaign by joining the Seafood Trail, with many restaurants showcasing their best fish dishes over the course of the entire week.

The Flavours of the Foyle Seafood Festival has received funding from the Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme (NIRFP), Derry City Council and The Loughs Agency. To find out more about the full programme of events over the two days visit www.derrycity.gov.uk/seafood.