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Irish Independent

Wexford's Rockin' Food and Fruit Festival attracts 50,000 people to streets of Enniscorthy

Arguably the biggest festival in Wexford, outside the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, it consisted of 80 food and craft vendors, live food demonstrations, and a number of performances from musicians and dancers from within Wexford and across the country. The official launch was held with a vibrant ceremony at Enniscorthy Castle on Friday, May 2 by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne. He commended the ongoing commitment of the organising committee and all involved in growing the festival over the past decade. Cathaoirleach Aidan Browne echoed these sentiments, highlighting the event's significance not just for family entertainment and cultural celebration, but also for its positive economic impact on the local community. "It is hard to believe that it's been ten years running. This festival has always been about more than just food and music. It's about giving people a reason to come into Enniscorthy, to meet each other, and to support what we have to offer,' he said. Speaking on behalf of the festival's title sponsor, Kevin Lawlor of Enniscorthy Credit Union said: 'We are proud to support this fantastic community event, which continues to bring people together and promote the best of Enniscorthy and Wexford. Congratulations to the organisers on reaching this important milestone.' Richie Cotter also spoke about the origins of Rock 'n' Roll and it's place in the town of Enniscorthy, which has been recognised as one of the hot-beds of Rock 'n' Roll in Europe. Festival chairman Eric Barron extended sincere thanks to the festival's supporters and sponsors, including Enniscorthy Credit Union, Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club, Wexford Food Producers Network, Donohoe Skoda, and all Friends of the Festival. The Wexford Food Producers were delighted with the response to their panels of celebrity chefs including; Kevin Dundon, Edward Hayden, and Wexford's Paul Hynes and Warren Gillen. Marketing Manager Stacey Williams emphasised that the festival had a big focus on homegrown brands including; Naturally Cordial, Isle of Crackers, Mor Taste, La Kav Wines, Killowen Farm, Wexbury Irish Spirits, Earth Food, All About Nectar & Killian Castle Honey, Zaeire Artisan Chocolate and Elderberry Farm Produce. A wide array of bands took to the various stages along the Promenade and the Market Square to bring live music to music-lovers and families milling about the packed town. There were activities galore for children of all ages including a free Lego event, a puppet show, Pokémon trading card session, and the opportunity to meet and interact with beloved animated characters thanks to the crew of the Rathnure Pantomime Society. An Garda Síochana, the ambulance service, and the Civil Defence were also on hand to assist with traffic management at the weekend and helped keep the festival running smoothly. On behalf of the festival organisers, Amanda Whitmore extended her thanks to everyone who made their milestone anniversary a huge success. "From the incredible food vendors, chefs, musicians, dancers, to the tireless volunteers, sponsors, local businesses, and most importantly – you our amazing festival goers – this week was unforgettable. With record-breaking attendance, buzzing streets, and an electric atmosphere, we marked out tenth anniversary in style!'