Next weekend’s inaugural Big Manx Feast will showcase the work of more than 60 island producers, hospitality businesses and activity providers.

Taking place on September 19-20 at Noble’s Park, the refreshed two-day event builds on the legacy of the Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival which was last held at the Villa Marina Gardens in 2023.

Organisers, government agency Business Isle of Man, say Manx ingredients will take centre stage through cooking demonstrations, expert talks, family entertainment, live music and an extensive showcase of local produce.

With award-winning international cake artist Aimee Ford as compere, visitors can look forward to appearances from TV chef Michela Chiappa, Great British Bake Off star Toby Littlewood, social media sensation Pierre.le.Chef and barbecue experts from Jack's Meat Shack.

They will be joined by a strong line-up of demonstrators from island businesses, including Georgie Revill of The Cook Shack, Fynoderee Distillery, Coast Bar and Brasserie, Kiki Lounge, and Noa Bakehouse, among others.

The site will be split into five main areas; Kitchen Table Talks, The Feasting Hall, The Cookery Theatre, Kids’ Zone and the Manx Meat Shack.

The former is housed in a tepee, and will play host a range of informal interviews and discussions with chefs, producers and local experts.

This varied programme includes a ‘fireside chat’ with Michela Chiappa, a look at the island’s food history and folklore, a discussion around food in our Biosphere, and an industry-led panel discussion on heritage industries and the future of our food.

The Feasting Hall will provide covered seating at the centre of the festival, giving visitors a place to sit, eat and enjoy food and drink purchased from traders across the site.

Live music performances will take place throughout the weekend, including opening ceremonies from traditional dance groups Perree Bane and Skeddan Jiarg.

It will also house the ‘as Manx as possible’ festival bar, and a range of hot and cold food options.

The Cookery Theatre will feature live demonstrations from a range of local and visiting chefs who will showcase recipes, techniques and ingredients, with a particular focus on island produce.

Dedicated to younger visitors, the Kids Zone will offer a full programme of family friendly activities including performances from Manx Family Concerts, hands-on science activities, nature-based experiences with Let's Go Wild, plus face painting and outdoor cooking experiences.

Finally, hosted by Jack Rowbottom of Jack’s Meat Shack, local and UK talent will be showcasing Manx produce through outdoor cooking over charcoal and fire.

Chefs include island-based Michelin-trained chef George Harris, Braai chef Kyle Harris, and North Harvest chef, Dee Prophe.

The site will be open 10am to 7.30pm on September 19 and 11am to 6pm on September 20.

Early bird tickets cost £8 for adults or are £10 on the gate. Children under-16 are free if accompanied by a ticket-playing adult. Admission covers both days, meaning visitors can make the most of the various indoor and outdoor areas, kids facilities, action-packed programme and enjoy a food and drink festival experience on par with similarly-themed events in the UK.

Parking is available at Noble’s Park with overflow parking at University College Isle of Man’s Greenfield Road campus.