Numbers down for IoM Food Festival

The number of people attending the Isle of Man Food Festival fell by 6,000 this year.

Government figures showed that 10,000 people attended this year’s event, compared to 16,000 in 2020.

Despite this, the government said the event is still worth about £365,000 to the island's economy.

Last year ticket prices were reduced to half price to encourage exhibitors and visitors to attend as the island emerged from a lockdown. 

First held in 2009, the food festival takes place at the Villa Marina in Douglas and features a range of Manx produce and cookery demonstrations.

Environment Minister, Clare Barber said: “The festival continues to play a significant role in growing the food and drink sector, a key goal of our Food Matters strategy.

"The report gives a clear indication that people are increasingly keen to know where their food comes from and buy and support local.”

The Isle of Man government is planning to grow the island's food industry by £50 million pounds over the next ten years.