Investing in Food Culture is a Long-Term Strategy for Economic Growth, Says Festival CEO Eunice Power

Waterford Festival of Food, Ireland’s longest-running celebration of food, community, and connection, returns this month from 25th to 27th April 2025.

Over 75,000 visitors are expected to flock to Dungarvan and surrounding towns for more than 80 events that highlight the best of Waterford’s food heritage.

Waterford Festival of Food CEO Eunice Power says the festival is more than just a weekend of culinary indulgence.  “It’s a strategic driver of economic development, regional branding, and social cohesion. As the festival grows in scale and ambition, already with a 30% rise in ticket sales this year, its impact on Dungarvan and Waterford’s economy and identity extends far beyond its annual programming.”

Power says that investing in food in the region is not just about celebrating local gastronomy, “It’s a long-term strategy that fosters sustainable economic growth, strengthens community ties, and enhances Waterford’s global reputation as a culinary destination.”

The economic footprint of WFOF is significant, generating direct and indirect benefits for a broad spectrum of local businesses, worth an estimated €2.5 million to the region.  The festival highlights local food producers and farmers, strengthening Waterford’s food ecosystem long after the event concludes. Restaurants, hotels, markets, and independent retailers experience a surge in revenue, with the festival injecting spending into small businesses that depend on tourism and local patronage.  And it strengthens Waterford’s position as a region for world-class food.

Beyond economics, Waterford Festival of Food plays a critical role in encouraging people into the industry, says Power. “By spotlighting homegrown success stories—from chefs to food entrepreneurs, we build pride and ownership within the community.  And young people see food as a viable and rewarding career path, ensuring the long-term sustainability of our local food industry.

“Food has an unparalleled ability to bring people together, and our festival leverages this to foster social inclusion. It’s a place for diverse groups, we collaborate with ASD Dungarvan to ensure the festival is accessible to all, and we create communal dining experiences to bring people together through food."

"As the Waterford Festival of Food continues to evolve, its impact extends far beyond a single weekend of festivities. By embedding food culture into the region’s economic and social fabric, the festival exemplifies how strategic investment in local gastronomy can yield lasting dividends for business, community, and regional identity."

For more see waterfordfestivaloffood.com

Slán go fóill.