Top chefs to serve up some LegenDerry delights

Drowning your shamrocks may be a St Patrick’s tradition, but this year we’ll also be tickling your taste buds as the LegenDerry Food Festival rounds off the carnival celebrations in Derry.

Following on from the St Patrick’s Spring Carnival Parade on March 17, the weekend will see a flurry of activity in the festival marquee in Guildhall Square as chefs and suppliers showcase their wares.

Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 of March wil bring a two day celebration of local produce led by some of the North’s finest culinary talent, including top TV chef Paul Rankin (pictured).

Over 20 local restaurants will be taking part in this year’s event, which is a highlight of the Norther Ireland Year of Food and Drink Calendar.

The events mainly take place in the marquee which will dominate the Guildhall Square over the course of the festival.

On Thursday the venue will be hopping with live music throughout St Patrick’s Day.

But the musicians make way for some culinary magic as the LegenDerry kitchens open for business on Saturday and Sunday between 12noon and 6pm.

Look out for some familiar faces including BBC regular Paula McIntyre and RTE’s Brian McDermott, who will be sharing some top tips on how to impress your dinner party guests. And N. Ireland’s favourite chef

Paul Rankin returns to the Marquee after a fantastic reception at last year’s Flavours of the Foyle event.

Visitors will be able to enjoy some searing cook offs and demonstrations in the theatre of food as well as try and buy some five star dishes on the boulevard of chefs.

And there’s plenty for younger gourmands to enjoy with animation, juggling and children’s crafts.

The Guildhall will provide the setting for a Food Fair with a difference, as over 40 artisan producers showcase an array of local hand crafted products including chocolate, breads, sweets and cheeses.

The LegenDerry Food Festival will take place in the Guildhall Square and Guildhall from 12noon – 6pm on Saturday March 19 and Sunday March 20.