It’s no April fool, the first ever Shamrock Quay Festival takes place on Saturday, 1st April in Southampton and it’s free to go along.
There will be plenty of water-based fun on the quayside plus a boatful of food producers and treats to try throughout the day from 10am to 4pm.
“This is a first for us and we’re partnering with the wonderful Rocky Moore and his team at Quay 15. We’re all very much looking forward to welcoming our producers and friends and families to the quay,” says Alex Handford, business manager at Hampshire Farmers’ Markets.
For those who love vintage cars, parked up for the day will be some classic vehicles to enjoy. Or if you’re more of a water baby, the RNLI will be talking about and demonstrating water safety. All of this set to a melodic soundtrack from various live bands.
“There will be something for everyone at the festival,” enthuses Rocky of Quay 15. ”Bring the kids along to have their faces painted and they can even get out on the water. Quay 15 will be setting up a special Oyster Bar too,” he continues.
Of course, Hampshire Farmers’ Markets members will have stands at the festival, with produce to try and buy. Berceries will be bringing along their delicious home-baked products to sell and the always-popular fish-cakes by Catch Isle of Wight are sure to sell out on the day too.
FNK have a plethora of pies to try at home, such as gourmet pork belly and Moroccan lamb. For gin drinkers, both Silent Pool and Winchester Distillery will be offering samples; not forgetting something sweet from both Fordingbridge Fudge and Cupcakes mmm Cookies.
If you’re feeling peckish, Bowtells will be serving up their home reared, home produced burgers too.
Plus you can pick up some cookery tips from the demonstrations on the day from executive chef from the Exclusive Chef’s Academy Andy Mackenzie, as well as by John and Sylvia of JS Fresh Fish, based on the Quay.
Shamrock Quay Festival takes place at William Street, Southampton, Hampshire SO14 5QL.
Find out more about Hampshire Farmers’ Markets on their website at www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk