Disappointment as organisers confirm A Taste of Donegal not going ahead

The people of Donegal Town are accustomed to the pier car park being a hive of activity in late August as preparations are made for A Taste of Donegal food festival.

But sadly, it will not be taking place this year. 

The major three-day event traditionally takes place on the last weekend of August. 

A simple post on A Taste of Donegal's Facebook page confirmed what had been expected locally.

It reads: "A Taste of Donegal Food Festival is not taking place in 2023. Thanks to all those who have supported us over the years."

The festival last ran in 2019 and was a huge success, with the tents packed throughout the three days. The Covid-19 pandemic meant that it had to be cancelled in 2020 and again in 2021 when it had been planned to run the event earlier in the summer. 

In 2022, a significantly scaled back version of the festival - A Flavour of Donegal - took place on the town's Diamond. 

A Taste of Donegal Food Festival was a huge undertaking that was run entirely by a voluntary committee. It placed Donegal Town very firmly on the 'foodie' map, showcasing the high quality of local produce and bringing thousands of food lovers to the town annually.

Whether it will go ahead in the future remains to be seen, but its legacy for Donegal Town's foodie reputation and tourism economy will last long into the future.