Internationally-renowned Comeragh Lamb, local farming traditions and the history, culture, music and food of the mountainous Waterford region will be celebrated in June as the long-awaited Comeraghs Wild Festival gets away for the ninth year.
Sheepdog and sheep shearing demonstrations are a new addition to the action-packed, four-day programme which runs from July 6th to 9th, 2023.
Wellness advocate, Aisling Larkin, will conjure up “a feast for all of the senses” at history-steeped Nells Farmhouse with carefully selected produce, all locally sourced.
The Waterford native, who is back home and living in the region, will prepare a modern dish featuring crispy Comeragh Lamb from Willie Drohan’s nearby flock.
She said: “The Comeraghs Wild provides a platform to celebrate the incredible flavours and culinary traditions that can be found right here in our own back garden.”
“By cooking with locally sourced ingredients, we support our local communities and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of flavours that nature provides.”
“I am thrilled to be a part of this event and to share my passion for sustainable cooking with the attendees,” Aisling said.
Comeraghs Wild Festival
This year’s four-day Comeraghs Wild programme also includes foraging and forest bathing; woodland crafts, a sunrise walk in the mountains, mindfulness, meditation and yoga as well as guided hikes, surfing, a celebration of Irish culture and a locally produced docu-drama on the final months of the Civil War in the region.
This year’s Comeraghs Wild also includes open-air set dancing, a gala concert deep in the mountains and a closing concert with Gina & the Champions, a special night on their 50th-anniversary tour schedule.
Locals and visitors to the region are also invited to ‘Eamo and Ro’s Summer Soiree’, an informal three-course casual dining experience with local quality food at the newly-opened restaurant in Kilmacthomas.
The menu includes a melting pot of dishes, including nachos and wings, monkfish tacos, lamb kebabs, grilled corn rolled Comeragh Lamb and farm-to-fork beef provided by O’Reilly’s butchers, right next door.
Record crowds at 2022 festival
Festival chair, Mary Flynn, said it will be “hard” to top last year’s Comeragh’s Wild which drew record crowds to the region.
She explained that organisers have added new events to broaden the festival’s appeal, and there is a strong emphasis this year on celebrating and appreciating the flora and fauna of the Comeraghs and helping preserve it for future generations.
“This is a vast, varied region with magnificent beaches, amazing mountain terrain and some of the best walks, treks, and outdoor facilities you’ll find anywhere in Europe.”
“Since this Festival began, we have lots more great places to eat and fantastic places to stay.
“Comeraghs Wild celebrates our history and our culture, our fantastic local food and long-standing farming and cultural traditions.”
“We would encourage people across Waterford and beyond to have a look at the programme and join us for some fabulous indoor and outdoor events.”
