Cork on a Fork 2026: Festival Calls on Food Businesses to Get Involved

Cork's biggest celebration of food is returning this August, and organisers are inviting restaurants, producers, and food businesses to be part of it.

Cork on a Fork Fest, a flagship event of Cork City Council, takes place from 12 to 16 August 2026, and expressions of interest are now open ahead of a deadline of 30 March.

The five-day festival will once again transform Cork city into a showcase of local food culture, with more than 100 events planned across the city. From chef collaborations and pop-up dining in unique venues to producer tastings, street feasts, and craft brewery and distillery tours, there is something on the menu for everyone. A large number of events are free to attend, with tickets for others going on sale in May.

Businesses are encouraged to propose distinctive, authentic experiences, whether free or ticketed. Ideas could include exclusive tasting menus, producer-led suppers, behind-the-scenes kitchen demonstrations, food and drink pairings, street food pop-ups, family-friendly workshops, and neighbourhood collaborations.

The festival's reputation is growing well beyond Leeside. Travel publication Big 7 Travel, which attended last year's event, praised the way Cork on a Fork places artisans, traders, and local communities at its heart, highlighting the city's balance between a thriving contemporary food scene and its deep culinary heritage.

Cork on a Fork is run by Cork City Council in partnership with local hospitality businesses and producers, and is supported by Fáilte Ireland, the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Pure Cork, Cork Airport, the Irish Hotels Federation, MTU, Cork Business Association, and sponsor Musgrave.

Businesses interested in taking part should contact Niamh Murphy at corkonaforkfest@gmail.com before the 30 Marchdeadline. For more information, visit www.corkonaforkfest.ie or follow @corkonaforkfest on social media.