Food lovers are in for a treat this September as Taste Autumn in Ards and North Down returns from 11-27 September 2026, bringing a packed programme of food and drink experiences across the Borough.
From family-friendly events and hands-on activities to demonstrations and unique seasonal experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy against the backdrop of our stunning coastline, towns and villages.
The programme begins with Stargazing at Burr Point on 11 September, where visitors can explore the night sky with expert guides and discover constellations, planets and celestial stories above the dramatic Ards Peninsula coastline.
On Saturday 12 September, seafood and local flavours take centre stage as the popular Tide and Turf Food Festival returns to Portavogie. From 12 noon to 5pm, visitors can enjoy seafood dishes, artisan stalls, live cookery demonstrations and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Seafood expert and chef-owner of Lir, Stevie McCarry, and BBC Best Home Cook 2020 winner, TV presenter and cookbook author Suzie Lee, will showcase fresh local ingredients while sharing cooking tips and insights into the journey from shore to plate. Free pre-bookable shuttle buses will run from Bangor, Newtownards and Portaferry, offering a convenient and greener way to travel (tickets coming soon).
The festival concludes with a flavour-packed finale weekend on 26 and 27 September, when Taste Ards and North Down and the Chilli Festival take over Bangor Castle and Bangor Castle Walled Garden from 11am to 5pm each day.
Taste Ards and North Down introduces an exciting new addition for 2026: a live recording of the Love Food NI podcast hosted by Shauna Magill on Saturday, followed on Sunday by More than Fed, conversations with local producers hosted by Laura Bradley from Indie Füde, tickets available to pre-book.
The Chilli Festival brings heat, colour and fun to the Borough, with visitors invited to explore artisan stalls, enjoy live entertainment and take part in family-friendly activities celebrating all things chilli.
With bold flavours, live entertainment and engaging foodie talks running across the weekend, these finale events bring Taste Autumn to a memorable close, celebrating great company, great producers and the very best of Ards and North Down.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney, said: “Ards and North Down Borough Council is proud to bring Taste Autumn back for 2026, showcasing the people, produce and places that make our Borough one of Northern Ireland’s leading food and drink destinations. The programme highlights the strength of our local food network and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the very best of the region.”
Taste Autumn is brought to you by Ards and North Down Borough Council. Tide and Turf and Taste Ards and North Down at Bangor Castle are also supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme.
For tickets and further information visit visitardsandnorth.com/tasteautumn
