Latest news with #TraleeFoodFestival
Irish Independent
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Tralee Food Festival set for ‘tasty tussle' between Ireland's top social media stars
On May 18, popular sisters Breeda Hurley and Miriam Moriarty Owens of Johnny's Cottage take on TikTok titan Shane McCarthy. Celebrity chef and Tralee's own Italian Culinary King, Max Massimiliano Bagaglini will attempt to keep tabs on what promises to be an afternoon not to be missed. Johnny's Cottage is described as 'an unstoppable Tralee duo' who have turned Monday night Facebook Live streams into a national obsession, racking up over 30,000 viewers per session. Breeda and Miriam's infectious humour and off-the-cuff antics – think apple tarts gone wild and kiddie pool cookery – have made them social media royalty. Not to be outdone, Shane McCarthy is the 23-year-old Tralee-based TikTok sensation who's taken the internet by storm, hitting 100,000 followers since his viral coming-out moment in January 2024. With his Kerry Traveller roots, and the art for blending heartfelt tales with pure charisma, Shane's ready to cook up a storm. And who better to judge this epic face-off than the RTE Today Show Chef, Massimiliano Bagaglini – the genius behind Tralee's Convivium Italian Gourmet. The Italian will crown the winner of this tasty tussle, though with this much fun on the menu, everyone's in for a treat. It's billed as a battle of social media titans that's as newsworthy as it is delicious and is guaranteed to crowd-please with laughs, gasps, and culinary madness. 'We've struck gold with Breeda, Miriam, and Shane: three social media sensations who light up screens and kitchens alike,' said one of the festival organisers Ken Tobin. 'Max won't take any prisoners, so you've got a recipe for absolute mayhem. This is Tralee at its funniest and finest—don't miss it!' The Tralee Food Festival will offer over 100 artisan stalls and food trucks, and free live entertainment all weekend. But it's the Calor Tent cook-off that's set to break the internet.
Irish Independent
28-04-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Countdown to Tralee Food Festival in the Kerry capital – 'It showcases the vibrancy of our town'
The official launch was held recently by the committee, who are excited in anticipation of another successful event that draws crowds from all over Kerry to Tralee as the programme of events comes to fruition. Tralee Food Festival is about recognising and presenting the work of foodies year on year as it continues to grow. It's core aim is to create an inclusive, vibrant festival with free workshops, live entertainment and cooking demos for both locals and visitors alike. Mary Mc Quinn is one of the festival organisers who believes it's 'incredibly important' to highlight the best of local produce, support small businesses, and contribute positively to the local economy. 'We really hope everyone enjoys what we have planned for this year. The eagerly awaited festival is not only set to showcase exceptional food and local talent, but also to recognise the outstanding businesses of Tralee that bring the festival to life,' she said. Thanks to the support of Entára Group – the co-working hubs and office space company – this year's festival will feature three exciting award categories: Best Restaurant, Best Stall/Vendor, and Best Shop Front. These awards will highlight those who excel in the quality of food, creativity, or the impact they have on the local community during the festival. Moreover, the awards will provide a unique opportunity for businesses to showcase their dedication and commitment to creating memorable experiences for festival-goers. The categories will be judged by Chef Max Bagaglini, Mayor of Tralee Mikey Sheehy, and food and lifestyle content creator Aisling McCarthy. The judges will tour all stalls, visiting restaurants and bars on the Taste Trail, and walking through the town to inspect shop front displays. This is an opportunity for businesses to show off their best work and make a lasting impression. Shops are encouraged to put in a big effort into ensuring their business stands out, while the public can also share photos and feedback across social media throughout the festival. Festival organiser Ken Tobin said that by inviting all businesses, and shops in particular, to bring a splash of colour to their windows, it embraces the fun of the food festival. 'This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the vibrant spirit of our town and create a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors. Let's work together to make Tralee shine and show off the best of what our community has to offer,' Ken said. The Tralee Food Festival is a celebration of all things local and with the support of Entára Group, this year's awards will be the perfect opportunity to celebrate the hard work and innovation of our local food scene.
