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.
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 1 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 Salthill. On May 2, 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 3 and 31, focusing on preserving, fermenting and herbal infusions. On May 4, MacNeill’s Bar at The Hardiman will host an evening celebrating Irish staples, with music, dance and seafood chowder.
“Blas na Bealtaine really feels like the start of summer in Galway for the hospitality community," said founding member and Galway restaurateur Jp McMahon. "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 11, led by Zsolt Lukács and Cathal McBride, offering a journey through Central European wines paired with cheese. On May 14, 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 15, 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 16 and 23, and Aniar’s The Italian Job – Part II on May 17, 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 20, followed by Local Legends at Tom Sheridan’s Bar and Restaurant on May 21, a four-course menu celebrating local producers.
Nature and foraging return to the fore on May 23 with a guided walk led by Jörg Müller of Solaris Tea, exploring over 30 native medicinal plants. On May 24, Kombu Ramen & Bao Bar hosts Baos & Beats, a brunch combining small plates, cocktails and music.
The festival concludes on May 31 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.
