Blas na Bealtaine, the annual food festival from Blas na Gaillimhe – A Taste of Galway, returns this May with a month-long celebration of seasonal food and flavour, bringing together Galway’s vibrant food community for a packed programme of events. Discover more here...
Showcasing local producers, chefs, collaborations and international influences, the festival offers a mix of tastings, workshops, dining experiences and cultural events across the city.
The programme begins on May 1st with a collaboration between Micil Distillery and Gourmet Tart, launching a limited-edition cheesecake made with Micil Irish Cream Liqueur, with a complimentary tasting at Gourmet Tart in Salthill. On May 2nd, Margaret Leahy presents Food, Foraging and Folklore at The King’s Head in partnership with Fleadh na Bealtaine, exploring Ireland’s natural larder and the connection between food, wild plants and folklore.
Continuing the seasonal theme, Ivonka Kwiek of Sage and Lovage will host two “Be Sage, Make Lovage” workshops at Aniar on May 3rd and 31st, focusing on preserving, fermenting and herbal infusions. On May 4th, MacNeill’s Bar at The Hardiman will host an evening celebrating Irish staples, with music, dance and seafood chowder.
above: Daróg Wine Bar, photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Founding member and Galway restaurateur Jp McMahon said, “Blas na Bealtaine really feels like the start of summer in Galway for the hospitality community. This year’s programme brings together a mix of global flavours and hands-on experiences that connect people more closely to the landscape and the food it produces.”
Wine and food pairings feature strongly throughout the month. Highlights include Daróg’s Turas Fíona on May 11th, led by Zsolt Lukács and Cathal McBride, offering a journey through Central European wines paired with cheese. On May 14th, Cava Bodega presents a six-course summer tasting menu inspired by Spanish flavours and Irish produce, while Galway Food Tours hosts a special Apéritif Tour showcasing local spirits, cheeses and seasonal dishes. Kelly Oysters will also offer complimentary tastings at McSwiggans.
On May 15th, Alma Restaurant will host a Portuguese food-and-wine evening, guided by wine specialist Mariana de Moraes in collaboration with Grace Campbell Wines, alongside insights from chef João on Portuguese culinary traditions.
Further highlights include whiskey and cheese tastings hosted by Micil Distillery and Trieste on May 16th and 23rd, and Aniar’s The Italian Job – Part II on May 17th, featuring a menu of Italian-inspired dishes with Aniar’s signature approach, including Spaghetti ‘West’ern Bolognese. The Micil Cocktail Competition finals take place at M. Fitzgerald’s on May 20th, followed by Local Legends at Tom Sheridan’s Bar and Restaurant on May 21st, a four-course menu celebrating local producers.
above: Tom Sheridans
Nature and foraging return to the fore on May 23rd with a guided walk led by Jörg Müller of Solaris Tea, exploring over 30 native medicinal plants. On May 24th, Kombu Ramen & Bao Bar hosts Baos & Beats, a brunch combining small plates, cocktails and music.
The festival concludes on May 31st with Chef Lauro Rosso presenting a Brazilian-inspired food-and-music experience, featuring traditional dishes, pastries, and a live performance by Valter Romulo.
With a diverse and engaging programme running throughout May, Blas na Bealtaine encourages people to get out and explore Galway’s dynamic food scene.
For the full list of events and to book tickets, visit atasteofgalway.com/events. For updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow @blasnagaillimhe on social media.
All photos courtesy of Blas na Gaillimhe
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