Entries Open for Blas Na hÉireann 2026
Local Enterprise Office Wicklow to sponsor ‘Best in County’ award
Producers across Wicklow are being invited to take part in Blas na hÉireann 2026, the Irish Food Awards, as entries officially open for the country’s largest and most prestigious competition celebrating quality Irish food and drink. Now in its 19th year, the awards continue to grow in scale and reputation, offering a national platform for producers to showcase their products. The closing date for applications is Thursday 14th May, and can be submitted via www.irishfoodawards.com
Blas na hÉireann represents a key opportunity for Wicklow food businesses to gain recognition, build industry connections, and access new market opportunities. With over 3,000 entries received in 2025 and more than 200 categories in 2026, the awards highlight the strength and diversity of Ireland’s food sector, with judging conducted through the island’s largest blind tasting process in partnership with UCC.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Melanie Corrigan said, “It is fantastic to see Wicklow producers given the opportunity to showcase their products on a national stage. The county has a strong tradition of high-quality food production, and initiatives such as Blas na hÉireann provide a valuable platform to celebrate that excellence while supporting local enterprise and economic growth.”
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman, commented, “Wicklow County Council, through Local Enterprise Office Wicklow, is delighted to sponsor the ‘Best in County’ award for 2026. Our food and beverage sector continues to go from strength to strength, combining heritage with innovation to produce high-quality, sustainable products. We are proud to support our local producers in gaining national recognition and expanding their reach.”
Vibeke Delahunt, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Wicklow, added, “Wicklow has a proud tradition of exceptional food producers, and Blas na hÉireann provides a unique opportunity to showcase the very best of what the county has to offer. We would strongly encourage local producers to enter and take advantage of the exposure, networking, and growth opportunities that come with participating.”
The awards will culminate in the Blas na hÉireann festival in Dingle from the Thursday 1st – Sunday 4th October, with the awards ceremony taking place on Friday 2nd October. The event brings together producers, buyers, and food enthusiasts from across Ireland, offering finalists and winners a valuable platform to showcase their products.
Entries are now open; finalists will be announced in mid-August.