Exciting Tasting Event at Ballymoney Spring Fair!
The Ballymoney Spring Fair took place in April 2026. We had a brilliant time. Thank you to everyone who came along! Read on for a recap of the event.
Ballymoney came to life with 3 fun-filled days of free entertainment and family-friendly activities as the annual Spring Fair returned! With our Taste Testing Event and other exciting activities running from Thursday until Saturday, it was an event not to be missed.
Taste Testing Event in Partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Visitor Information Centre
In partnership with the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Visitor Information Centre we showcased a carefully curated collection of local artisan food and produce at a special Taste Testing Event on Friday and Saturday.
Visitors to the Taste Testing Event had the opportunity to hear the stories behind the products and producers that make Causeway Coast and Glens food culture so unique. From family-run farms and artisan bakers to award-winning producers and creative makers, every product reflected the heritage, skill and dedication of local businesses committed to quality and sustainability.
Events like the Ballymoney Spring Fair play an important role in supporting independent producers while encouraging people to shop local and celebrate the incredible talent found across Northern Ireland.
The lively atmosphere, warm welcome and fantastic mix of entertainment, markets and food experiences made the Spring Fair one of the highlights of the Spring calendar. Whether discovering new flavours for the first time, or reconnecting with familiar favourites, the event was a memorable celebration of community, craftsmanship and local pride in the heart of Ballymoney.
Award Winning Artisan Food and Drink
The Causeway Coast and Glens region is widely recognised as one of Northern Ireland's leading destinations for artisan food and locally crafted produce. Nestled between dramatic coastlines, rolling glens and rich farmland, the area offers a unique environment where passionate producers create exceptional food rooted in tradition and quality.
Food producers across the Causeway Coast and Glens have earned widespread recognition at regional, national and international level, reinforcing the area's reputation for excellence. Local artisans have achieved top honours at prestigious competitions such as the Great Taste Awards, often described as the "Oscars of the food world", with stand-out products including Broighter Gold Rapeseed Oil and Irish Black Butter.
Producers such as Corndale Farm, Taste Joy and Dundarave Estate have also enjoyed success at Blas na hEireann, bringing home multiple gold, silver and bronze medals, alongside titles such as Best in County. These consistent achievements reflect the exceptional quality, creativity and passion of local makers, firmly establishing the Causeway Coast and Glens as an award-winning food destination of international standing. You can find these products, and more, in our online store at www.basaltandoak.com.
Bringing the flavours of the Causeway to life at the Taste Testing Event
We showcased a carefully curated collection of local artisan food and produce at this special Taste Testing Event, in partnership with the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Visitor Information Centre.
The Taste Testing Event ran on both Friday 17th and Saturday 18th from 10am to 4pm each day and included products such as Irish Black Butter, Corndale Farm Nduja Ketchup, Dundarave Estate, Glens of Antrim crisps, Islander Rathlin Kelp, Broighter Gold Oil, Bacon Jam, Irish Shore Seaweeds Dulse and many more.
From award-winning products and freshly baked goods to small-batch seasonings and locally sourced seaweed, the region's farm-to-table ethos was on full display.
Visitor Information Centres
Did you know, Basalt and Oak also provides a curated range of local artisan food and drink within Visitor Information Centres all year round?
You can visit Ballycastle, Ballymoney, Bushmills, Limavady or Portrush Visitor Information Centres to view or purchase these products. The products are carefully selected to reflect each area's character and support small, independent producers.
Find out more about your local Visitor Information Centre and opening hours here:
Visitor Information Centres | Visit Causeway Coast and Glens
Ballymoney Country Market
The Ballymoney Country Market, hosted by our charity NNCG, also returned to Ballymoney on both Friday 17th and Saturday 18th April from 11am to 4pm each day. An incredible mix of small businesses offering everything from speciality food and street food to handcrafted items, art, gifts, jewellery, home fragrances, clothing, local produce, homewares, treats, toys, bakes and much more.
Family Friendly Entertainment
The weekend offered a special mix of family friendly entertainment including Bumper Cars, Circus Skills, Classic Cars, Truck Display, Dog Agility and music from Fuse FM and other local talented artists, culminating in a colourful carnival parade.
Thank you to everyone who joined us. We hope to see you at a future event!
Let us host a Taste Testing Experience for you
If you would like to add a delicious local taste testing experience to your next Corporate Event, get in touch with us. We offer bespoke services designed to elevate your events whilst bringing the heritage and flavour of the area to your guests.
