The Channel Islands are about to serve up something truly special this October with the inaugural A Table in Guernsey Food Festival. Running from 4 to 12 October 2024, this exciting new event promises to bring together food lovers, local producers, and culinary talent for an unforgettable nine days of tastings, tours, and unique dining experiences on the beautiful island of Guernsey.
A Table in Guernsey Food Festival Line-Up
The A Table in Guernsey Food Festival is packed with activities designed to showcase the island’s rich gastronomic culture. Whether you’re a local foodie or a visitor eager to sample the best of what Guernsey has to offer, the festival promises something for everyone.
Among the most anticipated events are producer tastings and tours, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the island’s food and drink production. These intimate experiences will allow festival-goers to learn about the artisanal process behind local favourites and indulge in some unique culinary delights.
One of the highlights will be an on-farm tasting session at Rocquette Cider, where guests can enjoy locally produced cider in the very orchard where it’s made. For dairy lovers, there’s a special treat with a dairy tasting morning at Guernsey Dairy, providing insight into how the island’s famous dairy products are crafted. Adding to the charm of the experience, this tour will be accessed by the Petit Train, Guernsey’s much-loved tourist train, offering a scenic ride around the island.
Guernsey vs Jersey Chef Cook-Off
The festival’s signature event promises to be the Guernsey vs Jersey Chef Cook-Off on 11 October. This friendly but fierce competition will pit top chefs from Guernsey and neighbouring Jersey against one another in a culinary showdown. It’s a fun and entertaining way to witness the rivalry between the two islands, with chefs vying to impress with their culinary creations using local ingredients. Diners can expect not only great food but also a lively atmosphere filled with island pride. You can find a schedule of all the dinner events including the cook-off here.
Street Food Market
No food festival would be complete without a vibrant street food market, and Guernsey delivers in spades with a variety of vendors serving up global flavours and local favourites in the Street Food Market on 10 October on the Market Square (11am to 7pm). Among the must-visit stalls will be one by viral TikTok sensation, Spudman, whose creative takes on the humble potato have won the hearts (and stomachs) of millions online. The street food market is set to be a bustling hotspot during the festival, perfect for grabbing a bite on the go or sampling something new and delicious.
A Table in Guernsey Food Festival Farmers Market
The farmers market on 5 October (9am to noon) at the Bathing Pools is another key event of the festival, will showcase the very best of Guernsey’s local produce. Visitors can expect to find fresh vegetables, artisan cheeses, homemade jams, and more, all directly from the farmers and producers who grow and craft them. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet the people behind the island’s renowned produce and take home some delicious souvenirs.
When Is It?
Mark your diaries for 4 to 12 October 2024, and get ready to enjoy the very best of Guernsey’s culinary scene at this brand-new event.
Another Guernsey Festival
Alternatively try the Guernsey Literary Festival in June.
How To Get To Guernsey
Take the ferry with Condor Ferries from Poole and Portsmouth. Condor Breaks offers three nights B&B for the price of two at The Peninsula Hotel, (from £771) in October 2024, including return ferry transport to Guernsey from Poole.
Things To Do in Guernsey
For inspiration on what to do on your visit, read Mike Pickup’s Guernsey Holidays and Sark on the Side, or visit the local tourism website.
Images provided by Condor.
