Keeping the kids entertained is one thing. Finding somewhere the grown-ups actually want to go too? That’s the real parenting challenge. If your ideal family outing involves great food, plenty of entertainment and the chance to make some summer memories together, Taste of Kildare should be firmly on your radar.
Returning to Naas Racecourse on 15 and 16 August 2026, the popular food and drink festival is much more than a foodie event. With a packed Family Zone, live entertainment and children under 10 going free, it’s designed to be a day the whole family can enjoy.
Whether you’re a passionate home cook, a dedicated foodie or simply someone who never says no to trying something new this event, proudly sponsored by Kildare County Council, Kildare’s Local Enterprise Office, the Queally Group, Keadeen Hotel, Kilashee Hotel, Fitzpatricks Garages and Calor Gas, is the kind of event you’ll leave planning to visit again.
A festival where the whole family can get involved
While granny, granddad, mums and dads can sample some of Kildare’s best food and drink, little ones will have plenty to keep them entertained throughout the day.
Expect favourites including face painting, outdoor games, a pet farm from Nore Valley Park and a bouncy castle, alongside interactive activities and family-friendly entertainment including a magic show and a full area for sensory play.
It’s the kind of event where kids can run, play and explore while parents relax, discover new local producers and enjoy a bite to eat.
Food to keep everyone happy
Whether you’ve got a picky eater in tow or adventurous little foodies eager to try something new, there’ll be plenty to choose from.
Browse artisan food stalls, sample delicious local produce and discover everything from premium burgers and sweet treats to speciality coffees, craft drinks and locally made favourites.
Food trucks and producers, including Lily & Wild, Donadea Wagyu, The Kildare Brewing Company, Court Yard Hotel, Dew Drop, Osprey Hotel, Hyde Whiskey and Bar 1288, will be serving up something special throughout the weekend, as well as much more.
Visitors can also enjoy afternoon tea with a twist at the Keadeen Hotel, perfect for taking away to enjoy picnic-style wherever you choose, or experience the Killashee Hotel’s BBQ with chef Philip Gleeson.
The undercover producer market will also offer a wonderful opportunity to meet the people behind some of Kildare’s best-loved food brands and pick up delicious treats to take home.
Entertainment all weekend long
As well as fantastic food, visitors can enjoy live chef demonstrations from some of Ireland’s best-known chefs, including Aisling Larkin to present calor gas chef demo stage with chefs Kevin Dundon, Eva Pau, Adrian Martin, Philip Gleason, Graham Herterich and more alongside hands-on workshops and tasting experiences.
The atmosphere continues throughout the weekend with live music, including performances from Newbridge Gospel Choir, Spring Break, Casa Disco, Noughty Tribute and Cliona Hagan, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxed family day out.
Making summer memories together
There’s something special about spending a day outdoors, discovering new flavours, listening to live music and watching the kids enjoy themselves.
Whether it’s meeting the animals at the pet farm, getting their faces painted or dancing along to the music, Taste of Kildare offers plenty of opportunities to create those memorable family moments that last long after summer ends.
Organised by Into Kildare with the support of Kildare County Council and the Local Enterprise Office, the festival celebrates the very best of the county’s food, hospitality and local businesses while offering visitors a warm Kildare welcome.
Plan your visit
Taste of Kildare takes place at Naas Racecourse on 15 and 16 August 2026.
With tickets starting at just €10 and children under the age of 10 going absolutely free, you can book your family tickets for Taste of Kildare here today and enjoy a fantastic-value summer day out,
