Saturday, 16th August '25

Walk and taste your way around Cork city with a specially designed Cork on a Fork Food Trail visiting the very best places using the very best Iocal produce. An experienced guide will sharing their love of good food and Cork city and stories of the history and culture Cork as you stroll the city streets. Vegetarian friendly. With Fab Food Trails.
Tickets: €80 per person. Book here

Cork Sugarcraft Workshop

10.30am - 11.30am, Saturday 16th August, St. Peter's North Main Street

Cork Sugarcraft Association will host a fun interactive workshop suitable for children (age 6 & up) and adults. You will learn to make your very own 'Love Cork' bear complete with red love heart in sugarpaste and sign our 'Love Cork' cake at this hands on workshop.Tickets: Kids €8, Adults €10  Book here

Cork on a Fork Food Market & Play Street

11.00am - 5.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Emmet Place (outside The Crawford Art Gallery)

Get a taste of Cork's incredible produce and local businesses at the Cork on a Fork Food Market. There will be live music and family fun with giant games and free face painting during the day. A Cork City Council event, sponsored by Fáilte Ireland, Ireland's Ancient East and the Wild Atlantic Way.
FREE ENTRANCE No booking required

Cork on a Fork Cooking Demos Live Stage

11.00am - 6.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Cooking Demo Stage, Emmet Place

A 100-seat Festival Cooking Demo Stage on Emmet Place (outside the Cork Opera House) all day with a host of demos and tastings. The events are MC'd by food writers Joe McNamee from the Irish Examiner, John and Sally McKenna from McKenna Guides and Kate Ryan from Flavour.ie. Sponsored by Fáilte Ireland, Ireland's Ancient East and the Wild Atlantic Way.
FREE. All welcome. Limited seats. No need to book.

• 11am: Smokin’ Fish with Aishling Moore of Goldie and Sally Barnes of Woodcock Smokery
• 12pm: Summer Alfresco with Clodagh McKenna
• 2pm: Takashi Takes on Tripe
• 3pm: Young Rebel Uprising
• 4pm: Modern Vegan & Vegetarian Food with My Goodness, Paradiso and Meb’s Veg
• 5pm: Tastes of Home with Saoirse Ethnic Hands

See Lives Stage and Markets for more info.  More will be announced soon.

Cork on A Fork Talks and Tastings Stage

11.00am - 6.30pm, Saturday 16th August, Talks & Tastings Stage, Emmet Place

Tastings, panel discussions, and masterclasses. Hear fascinating stories from local chefs, food and drinks producers, insights on the local food industry, and more. And there's often a tasting thrown in!
FREE. All welcome. Limited seats. No need to book

• 11am: Cork’s Food Revolution: Innovators Shaping the Future
• 12.15pm: Liquid Gold - A Celebration of Cork’s Blas na hÉireann Award-Winning Beverages
• 3.15pm: In Gut Health – Eat and Drink Your Way to a Happy and Healthy Gut
• 4.15pm: Raw Treats Demo and Stretches with The Yoga Tree
• 5.30pm: Splitting the C – A Celebration of Cork’s Independent Stout Brewers

See Lives Stage and Markets for more info.  More will be announced soon.

Cork Culinary Tour

11.00am - 2.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Cork City Centre

The Cork Culinary Tour brings people together through storytelling, Irish culture, food and drink. You will wander through Cork City's famous food and beverage market, the English Market, in operation since the 18th century, and explore and enjoy the very best the city has to offer. With prebooked tastings of local award-winning cheese, mouthwatering seafood fresh from the Atlantic, handmade Irish bread, gourmet country sausages, and more. The tour finishes in a relaxed gastro pub where guests can enjoy a sharing platter and a creamy pint or local beverage of choice.
Tickets: €110 per adult, €80 per youth (12-18), €35 per child. Book here.

Food, Fun and Farm at the Cornmarket St Market (Coal Quay)

11.00am - 3.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Coal Quay Cornmarket Street

Pop down to the Cornmarket Street (Coal Quay) Market, enjoy light bites on the street and everyone can have lots of fun with a pop-up Rumleys Farm, facepainting and giant Jenga, connect four, corn hole, balance board games, colour catcher games, tug of war and more, with our Let’s Play Cork play leaders. Note: this is not supervised play and parents are responsible for children. Play street and facepainting from 11am-1pm.
Tickets: FREE (No booking required)

The Gruffalo’s Tasty Tale - SOLD OUT!

12.00 Noon, Saturday 16th August, Eason's, St Patrick's Street

Enjoy a magical Gruffalo-themed event perfect for little ones ! It will begin with a fun and interactive reading of The Gruffalo on picnic blankets before kids roll up their sleeves and get creative decorating their very own Gruffalo Crumble muffins with Gingerbread House. Think chocolatey treats, edible eyes, and a sprinkle of imagination — it’s the perfect way to bring the story to life. Easons will also offer a 10% discount on any Gruffalo products bought on the day. Suitable for age 3-7.

Tickets: FREE - BOOKED OUT.

Tutored Beer Tasting & Micro-Brewery Visit

12.00pm - 12.45pm, Saturday, 16th August, Elbow Lane, Oliver Plunkett Street

Step inside the smallest brewery in Ireland, Elbow Lane Brew & Smokehouse on Oliver Plunkett Street, and discover its limited-edition range of award-winning beers. During this informal, informative and FUN tasting, you will try each of their beers and hear about the brewery and beer in general. Includes a unique Elbow Lane 100% recycled Organic Cotton T-Shirt, 4 tasting beers and pinchos.
Tickets: €60 per person  Book here

Brewery Tour, Pizza and Pint @ Rising Sons

12.00 Noon, Saturday 16th August, Rising Sons Brewery

A Tour, Pizza & Pint at Cork’s award-winning Rising Sons Brewery. Discover their brewing process, explore the custom-built brewery, and enjoy a guided tasting of two to three beers with their expert team. Learn about Ireland’s brewing heritage, the science behind the brew, and how to identify different styles—plus, ask anything during a fun Q&A. Afterwards enjoy a pizza and pint in their pub..

Tickets: €28pp. Email: risingsonscork@gmail.com and reference Cork on a Fork.

Chase the Fairy Absinthe Experience

12.00 Noon, Saturday 16th August, Rebel City Distillery

Join Rebel City Distillery for Ireland's first and only premium Absinthe Experience . This unique celebration of the Alchemy and Artistry Experience includes a guided Distillery Tour, a Welcome drink on arrival, 2 Cocktails, with non-alcoholic options available, and Absinthe-infused chocolates in collaboration with Second Street Bakeshop.
Tickets: €45 per person Book here

Food Explorers: A Tasty Cork Adventure for Kids!

12 Noon - 1.00pm, Saturday 16th August, St Peter's North Main Street

A fun-filled children's workshop where we’ll play, learn, and create our way through the delicious world of food in Cork! Grown-ups who make rules (we call them policymakers) want to hear from YOU—so they can make the best plan for food that is good for you and good for nature.

• Discover where your food comes from
• Play games to learn how food travels from farms to forks
• Explore how to spot healthy choices in your neighbourhood
• Design your own dream food-friendly city
• Hands-on fun
• Arts & crafts with a food twist
• Prizes and stickers for superfood explorers!

Come hungry for fun—and don’t forget your imagination. Let’s make Cork the healthiest, happiest place on the planet to eat and live – one snack at a time! Ages: 5-12yrs

A Harvest of Nations, One Garden, Many Kitchens

12.00pm - 2.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Togher Community Garden

Togher Community Garden will host A Harvest of Nations, a celebration of the cultures and cuisines represented by their amazing volunteers. They will cook dishes from around the world — using ingredients grown in the garden. The event is open to the public, with samples of each dish to taste and recipes to take home. A feast of flavours from one garden with many kitchens!
Tickets: FREE (No booking required)

The Cork Brunch at Sophies

12.00pm - 3.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Sophie's Rooftop Bar & Restaurant

A unique brunch to celebrate the best local produce from Bandon to Ballycotton at Cork’s only rooftop bar and restaurant. The event will commence with a Rebel city signature summer cocktail incorporating Maharani Gin. DJ Dave Daly will be on hand to keep the vibes high.
Tickets: €35 per person Book here

Summer Tapas on the Terrace

From 12 noon, Saturday 16th August, Cornstore Cork

Guests will enjoy a signature Midleton Whiskey cocktail paired with a locally-sourced tapas plate on the terrace for €35. To enhance the experience guests can also opt for a Midleton Whiskey tasting board or indulge in a whiskey-inspired dessert—crafted with care and Cork flavour.

Tickets €35. To book tel 021 4274777 or email cork@cornstore.com

Children's Food Trail

12.30pm, Saturday 16th August, Cork City Centre

Join our fun and fascinating children’s food trail through Cork City Centre. Children (and accompanying adults if they wish) can sample bite-size child-friendly local food as they wander through the city. They will also hear fun and interesting facts about food and history in Cork. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Tickets: €18 per person  Book here

English Market Cooking Demo with Cork Chef Orla McAndrew

1.00pm - 2.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Outside the English Market on Grand Parade

Award-winning Cork Chef Orla McAndrew will indulge visitors to the English Market with a cookery demonstration and sampling outside the building on Grand Parade. Committed to sustainability and a 'zero-waste ethos' Orla will be using a range of fresh, local ingredients from the stalls of the renowned English Market to create seasonal tasting and sharing plates - perfect for summer gatherings.

Tickets: FREE (No booking required)

The Met x Maharani Afternoon Tea

1-4pm, Saturday 16th August, The Met, Metropole Hotel

The Met and Rebel City Distillery come together for a delicious fusion Of Cork and Kerala for this special Afternoon Tea, blending local flavours with Indian botanicals. Guests will be welcomed with a refreshing Maharani Gin & Tonic, followed by a Summer Berry Afternoon Tea inspired by the bold flavours of Maharani Gin—crafted in Cork using botanicals from a women’s co-op in Kerala. Sweet and savoury treats will be served with tea and coffee in the elegant Tea Room at The Metropole.

Tickets €45 pp. Book here

Botanics & Bites at Bloom

1-6pm,Saturday 16th August, Bloom at Hayfield Manor

Indulge in a carefully crafted botanical cocktail and a sharing board featuring a selection of produce from leading local suppliers for two in Hayfield Hotel's garden venue Bloom. This offer is available daily throughout the duration of the festival.

Tickets €50 for 2.  To book call 021 4845900 or email events@hayfieldmanor.ie

North X South Wine Tasting

1.00pm and 3.00pm, Saturday 16th August, MacCurtain Wine Cellar & L'Atitude 51

In the VQ area, North of the Lee, MacCurtain Wine Cellar will be pouring wines from 3 northern regions, while over on the South channel, L’Atitude 51 will be serving wines from 3 southern regions. Enjoy a flight of 3 wines in each venue accompanied by delicious light bites. When you finish in one venue, you make your way across the bridge for your second flight of wines. That’s 6 wines in total with snacks and a welcome stroll in between!
Tickets: €45 per person
Email info@latitude51.ie to book, stating your preferred time slot (1pm or 3pm). Over 18s only.

Exclusive Afternoon Brunch at The Montenotte with On the Pigs Back & The Gusbourne Estate

2.00pm, Saturday 16th August, The Montenotte

An elegant and exclusive Summer Afternoon Brunch at The Courtyard at The Glasshouse in the Montenotte. Enjoy a delicious Cork Cheese & Charcuterie Board from On The Pigs Back in The English Market, paired with the elegant sparkling Rosé, Gusbourne Estate Rose from the Gusbourne Estate in Kent

Tickets: €95pp. Book here.

Children's Play with your Food Tastings

2.00pm - 3.00pm, Saturday 16th August, St Peter's North Main St

Children will meet some of Cork's famous artisan producers and enjoy fun tastings in St Peters, curated by On the Pigs Back. There will also be free facepainting! Parental supervision is required, but grown-ups can relax with coffee and light bites in the café area, or browse the On the Pigsback: Artisan Cheese & Drinks Market in the space while children enjoy the experience. Suitable for age 5-12.
Tickets: €10 per child Book here

Sailing, Shucking and Shanties

2.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Pick up at Custom House Quay

Enjoy a cruise with Cork Harbour Cruises, on a 2.5-hour round-trip cruise from Custom House Quay to the lower Harbour. Take in all the stunning sights of the harbour, including Cobh, Spike Island, Haulbowline and Blackrock Castle. Pat O Connell from K O Connell Fish Stall in the English Market will be shucking oysters for your tasting, and there will be lots of entertainment on board with Sea Shanties by Cobh Molgoggers. All while you enjoy a guided tour of all the amazing history and sights of the most Fascinating Harbour.

Tickets: €50 per person. Book here

On the Pig's Back: Artisan Producers Market

2.00pm - 7.00pm, Saturday 16th August, St. Peter's North Main St

An On the Pig's Back curated market that brings together some of the region’s most beloved artisan producers. Sample a mouthwatering selection of local Cork cheeses & Charcuterie including the best of cheesemakers, charcuterie producers, biscuits, crisps and crackers etc.
All welcome No need to book

International Tea Ceremony and Cooking Demos

2.00pm - 4.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Tea Room and Lecture Theatre, Nano Nagle Place/School of Architecture

Explore international tea and food, it’s cultural considerations and stories, at this gorgeous multi-cultural tea ceremony with Cork Migrant Centre. You’ll also enjoy a tasters of food and a selection of tea and coffees from different regions.
Tickets: FREE  Book here

Farm to Fork Cook-up and Guided Tour

2.00pm - 3.30pm, Saturday 16th August, Murphy's Farm Community Garden, Curaheen (behind Bishopstown Tennis Club) T12VY10

All are welcome to Murphy's Farm's Farm to Fork Cook-Up, featuring fresh vegetables straight from their garden! Guest chef JJ from MTU will be cooking up a delicious stir-fry and vegetarian burgers on-site. Plus, enjoy a guided tour of their beautiful vegetable and flower gardens.
Tickets: FREE (All welcome, No booking required)

The Gruffalo’s Tasty Tale - BOOKED OUT

2.30pm, Saturday 16th August, Eason's, St Patrick's Street

Enjoy a magical Gruffalo-themed event perfect for little ones ! It will begin with a fun and interactive reading of The Gruffalo on picnic blankets before kids roll up their sleeves and get creative decorating their very own Gruffalo Crumble muffins with Gingerbread House. Think chocolatey treats, edible eyes, and a sprinkle of imagination — it’s the perfect way to bring the story to life. Easons will also offer a 10% discount on any Gruffalo products bought on the day. Suitable for age 3-7.
Tickets: FREE Booked Out

Rebel City Distillery X Fitzgerald's Bar Masterclass

3.00pm - 5.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Fitzgerald's Bar

An exclusive afternoon of cocktails, craft, and creativity at the newly refurbished Fitzgerald’s Bar with Rebel City Distillery. Enjoy a welcome cocktail on arrival, get behind-the-scenes insights and a tasting experience with Rebel City Distillery, then roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cocktail masterclass where you’ll make (and enjoy!) two signature drinks. Light bites made with the best local ingredients will keep you fuelled as you sip and shake your way through the session.
Tickets: €55
Book here

Distillery Tour with Founders

3.45pm, Saturday 16th August, Rebel City Distillery

oin a founder-led tour with Robert and Bhagya Barrett, founders of Rebel City Distillery and explore the story behind award winning spirits in their portfolio. This guided experience blends flavour, culture, innovation, and tradition. Enjoy a welcome Maharani Gin & Tonic or Maharani Vodka Soda as you're guided through the boutique distillery, filled with the rich aromas of the botanicals that flavour their spirits. Learn about their distillation process and finish with a tasting of Gin, Absinthe, and Vodka. As part of Cork on a Fork, guests will also enjoy complimentary light bites featuring Cork’s own O’Flynn’s Gourmet Sausages.
Tickets: €28. Book here

Cork Cheese & Drinks Pairing – In Partnership with On the Pig's Back

4.00pm - 5.00pm, Saturday 16th August, St. Peter's North Main St

An event filled with flavour and storytelling as we bring together Cork’s renowned artisan cheese producers under one roof. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the makers, hear the stories behind their craft, and enjoy a curated tasting of their exceptional cheeses paired with Kinsale Mead and Stonewell Cider.
Tickets: €25  Book here

From Barrel to Board: Whiskey & Cheese Tasting

4.30pm - 5.30pm, Saturday 16th August, Shelbourne Bar

An evening of exceptional Irish whiskey, expertly paired with elegant cheeses from the renowned On the Pig’s Back (English Market). Whether you're already captivated by the world of Irish whiskey or just beginning your journey, this event promises to elevate your palate. Your host, Finley, will guide you through three handpicked whiskey and cheese pairings — each crafted to surprise, delight, and impress.

Tickets: €25 Book here

Irish Coffee, Irish Dancing, Irish Music Workshop

4.30pm - 6.30pm, Saturday 16th August, JJ Walshes

Experience the best of Irish and Cork tradition in this lively workshop! Master the art of making the perfect Irish Coffee, step into an Irish jig, and listen to local trad music. Soft drink alternative for kids.
Tickets: €25
Contact: info@clancyscork.ie to book referencing Cork on a Fork JJs

Raise a Glass to Cork: A Talk & Tasting with Local Drinks Producers

5.00pm - 6.00pm, Saturday 16th August, St. Peter's North Main St

Join Joe McNamee, Senior Food Writer with The Irish Examiner, as he hosts an engaging conversation and tasting with Cork drinks producers. Hear the stories behind the bottles from the makers themselves—the award-winning Kinsale Mead Co., Stonewell Cider, and Rebel City Distillery—as they share insights into their craft, inspiration, and the future of Cork’s drink scene. Guests will enjoy guided tastings throughout.
FREE. All welcome. Limited seats. No need to book

Preserving the Past: Traditional Food Methods in a Modern World

6.00pm - 7.00pm, Saturday, 16th August, St. Peter's North Main St

Joe McNamee, Senior Food Writer with The Irish Examiner, will lead a thought-provoking conversation on the preservation of traditional food practices in modern Ireland. Featuring producers and On the Pigs Back, this talk will delve into the stories, skills, and sustainability behind time-honoured methods of cheesemaking, charcuterie, preserving, and more. A must for anyone interested in Cork’s rich culinary heritage.
FREE. All welcome. Limited seats. No need to book

Hysterical Histories Cork – Dinner Theatre Experience

7.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Amicus Restaurant, Paul Street

A laugh-out-loud dinner theatre experience unlike anything else in Ireland. This packed performance is suitable for all ages. Discover the highlights of Cork's 1500 year history and become acquainted with the city's quirky characters. Enjoy Cork cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients served up with live music and plenty of personality as you engage with the actors. Leave with a belly full of food, a warm heart and a pain in your face from laughing. Booking essential as numbers are limited, duration 2.5 hrs
Tickets: €55 per adult, (€50 with discount) | €32 per child (3-12 years), (€27 with discount) | 0-2 years FREE. Discount code: FORKFEST25. Book here.

Cork on a Fork Cocktail Class

7.00pm - 8.00pm, Saturday 16th August, Bar Moxy, Moxy Cork

This locally inspired cocktail class offers an engaging introduction to the essential tools and techniques behind two classic cocktails that any beginner can master—and taste. Designed to be fun and interactive, the experience aims to equip participants with the confidence to craft simple yet impressive drinks at home. Featuring some of Cork’s most unique and renowned ingredients. Age 21+
Tickets: €30 Book here