Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival 2025 - Enniscorthy’s Early Summer Feast!

The May Bank Holiday Weekend is shaping up to be a deliciously good time in Enniscorthy, as the beloved Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival returns from Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th May 2025.

This year brings a twist – after years of gracing the August sunshine, the festival is making its big move to early May. And if that’s not a reason to pack your bags and head to County Wexford, the lineup certainly is.

Get ready for three full days of fantastic food, family fun, toe-tapping tunes, and a whole town buzzing with atmosphere. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s cooking this May in Enniscorthy.

What's On - A Full Menu of Fun

Foodie Heaven in the Heart of Town

At the core of the festival is the buzzing Artisan Food, Drink and Craft Market, stretching across the town centre with over 80 stalls. If you’re craving smoky barbecue, vegan treats, handmade chocolates, wood-fired pizzas, or a cold craft cider, you're sure to find something that hits the spot. And if you’re after something a little different, you can browse stalls offering unique crafts, natural skincare, local preserves, cheeses, and more.

Don’t miss the Free Food Marquee, where top chefs, producers, and food experts will host a packed schedule of live cooking demos, talks, tastings, and workshops. You’ll come away with new recipes, foodie tips, and maybe even a few samples if you're lucky. It’s a great

place to pick up kitchen inspiration while watching some culinary stars in action.

Family Fun for All Ages

Bring the whole gang – the Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival is a paradise for families. Activities are dotted all across Enniscorthy, with something happening around every corner.

You can join hands-on food workshops, grow-your-own gardening classes, and creative arts and crafts sessions for kids. The face painting stations, family discos, and surprise street performers will keep the young (and young-at-heart) thoroughly entertained.

Two highlights for little ones this year:

• Slime Workshop on Saturday, 3rd May at 11:00am at Enniscorthy Castle

• Teddy Bear Making Workshop at 2:30pm the same day, also at the castle

It’s not just fun—it’s a chance to try new things and take home something made with their own hands.

Live Music All Weekend Long

Enniscorthy has earned its reputation as Ireland’s rock ’n’ roll town, and during the festival, music fills the air from morning till night. The Rock ‘n’ Roll Town Weekender runs in tandem with the food festival, meaning visitors can enjoy an impressive lineup of live performances all across town.

From rockabilly and blues to soul and swing, expect both Irish and international acts performing in outdoor stages, local pubs, bars, and even on the streets. Whether you’re sipping a pint in the square or dancing in a local bar, the soundtrack of the weekend will be hard to resist.

Pubs, Bars, and After-Dark Craic

When evening falls, the fun is far from over. Enniscorthy’s nightlife is warm, welcoming, and full of character. Traditional pubs like Rackards, The Bailey, and Dawsons offer live music and a laid-back atmosphere, while The Antique Tavern and others serve up a proper night out.

Some venues will be hosting festival-exclusive gigs and themed nights, so be sure to check the full schedule on the festival website closer to the event.

Festival Essentials

• Dates: Friday 2nd May to Sunday 4th May 2025

• Location: Enniscorthy, County Wexford

• Website: www.rockinfoodfestival.ie

Pricing: The best part? Most of the festival is free to attend. Entry to the Artisan Market, Food Marquee, and outdoor music events won’t cost you a thing. Some family workshops and special experiences may have a small fee, so it’s worth booking those in advance via the website.

Make a Weekend of It

With so much on offer, why not make a proper break of it? Enniscorthy has plenty of charming guesthouses, hotels, and self-catering options. The festival is also a brilliant way to explore the town’s rich history, from the iconic Enniscorthy Castle to the riverside walks along the Slaney.

Mark the dates, bring your appetite, and get ready to rock – Wexford-style. Visit www.rockinfoodfestival.ie for more information!