Armagh’s signature celebration of food, flavour, and the world-famous PGI-status Bramley Apple is happening this weekend. The acclaimed Food and Cider Weekend takes place from Thursday 3 to Sunday 6 September with the four flavour-filled days expected to bring thousands to the region to experience orchard tours, artisan markets, and a collection of unique, high-end curations from fire-cooked feasts and terrace dining, to cocktail masterclasses and elegant afternoon teas.
With generations of growers, cider makers, chefs and artisan producers, Armagh has long been recognised for its exceptional food and drink heritage. Home to an internationally acclaimed craft cider industry, thanks to its now PGI-protected Armagh Bramley Apple, more than 4,000 acres of orchards will become the backdrop for this year’s programme celebrating the region’s most iconic ingredient.
Food and Cider Festival
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Mary O’Dowd said, “Armagh Food and Cider Weekend is a celebration of everything that makes this region so special – our people, our produce, our hospitality and our proud orchard heritage. The Bramley apple has shaped the identity of this place for generations and remains at the heart of our food and drink story today.
“This annual festival gives visitors a unique opportunity to experience the incredible quality and creativity that exists across our borough, from our artisan producers and family orchards to our talented chefs, cider makers and hospitality businesses. We are proud to welcome visitors from near and far to experience the warmth, flavour and atmosphere of this Food Heartland.”
Highlights include events at Crannagael House – home to descendants of the family responsible for planting the first Bramley apple seedling in County Armagh. On Friday 4 September, this compelling venue will host a Supper Club with guest expert Judith Boyle perfectly pairing each course with selections from the award-winning MacIvors Cider. This will be followed by a Plot to Plate Dinner on Saturday 5 September, showcasing an exceptional 5-course menu thoughtfully paired with exquisite wines bringing attendees on an unforgettable journey of sustainability and sophistication.
Armagh’s cider producers – many of them multi‑generational family businesses – play a central role in the weekend’s programme.
Long Meadow Cider will invite guests to get creative at its Cocktails & Canvas session, taking place in the atmospheric Bramley Barn at the heart of the orchard on Thursday 3 September. Combining art, drinks and a relaxed farm setting, the experience will give participants the chance to let their creativity run free in the picturesque surroundings, with music and plenty of craic along the way, as they create their own artistic masterpiece.
Catherine McKeever from Long Meadow Cider said, “This weekend is a highlight of our year. It’s a chance to open our orchards, share our story and let visitors experience the craft behind every bottle. Our family has been growing apples for decades, and events like these help people connect with the land, the process and the passion that go into making Armagh cider. There’s nothing quite like seeing people enjoy our products in the very place they’re grown.”
The heart of the city will also come alive with ‘Cider in the City’ on Saturday 5 September, combining a showcase of cider makers and local producers with live music and artisan street markets, offering an opportunity to discover the people and stories behind the region’s thriving food and drink scene.
Free transport will be available from key local hubs including Armagh, Portadown, Richhill, Loughgall and Moy, bringing families and foodies directly to selected events.
