The Festival features a blend of bespoke, site-specific Orchard events combined with taste experiences and lively city centre events all with the PGI Armagh Bramley Apple at their heart.
In 2018 the Festival will deliver a programme of authentic, high quality experiences for visitors. They will have the opportunity to visit the apple orchards that produce the PGI Armagh Bramley Apple, seeing where and how it is grown and experiencing it being turned into the internationally well-known Armagh Cider.
Festival highlights will include:
Artisan Food and Cider Markets – the Orchard Markets will be a highlight, bringing the best of fresh produce and taste sensations together in bustling markets in Armagh and Banbridge. High quality artisan food, beverage and craft producers will gather to showcase their exceptional products in a unique setting. The Armagh Bramley Apple will be given pride of place with growers showcasing their fantastic produce. The markets will be animated with music and entertainment befitting the occasion including talks and demonstrations.
Crannagael House and Gardens: exclusive dining experiences throughout the weekend at this Grade II listed Georgian House with fantastic views over the apple orchards. These experiences will Include Wine and Cider pairing, dinners and a foraging event.
Cider making and tasting: get close to the action with the producers of Armagh cider as visitors are invited to enjoy the orchards to the full. Picnic among the trees and experience cider making in action then taste the delicious results.
Meet the chefs: some of the area’s best chefs and bakers will teach visitors to create culinary excellence under their expert guidance. Visitors will learn how to cook with Armagh’s fresh produce and foraging for food that they then cook in a programme of events designed with our local food experts.
Orchard Tours: Focussing on the Bramley Apple the tours will take place in the orchards where visitors can sample food and drink using and inspired by this product. Walking, Cycling and Coach tours.
