A growing food and drink community is set to take centre stage this weekend as the Food and Drink Society hosts a Consumer Day as part of Sommit Ireland.
Sarah-Jane McGrath, an events professional and sommelier, and founder of the Food and Drink Society has quickly built a strong following, creating a space where people can come together through shared experiences around food, wine and hospitality. The idea came from a belief that while there was no shortage of great venues and talented producers, there was room for something that connected them in a more meaningful way.
“The Food and Drink Society came from a real belief that there was room for something more in the region, something that brought people together through food and wine in a way that felt both high-quality and genuinely welcoming,” she said.
Since launching just two years ago, the Society has grown to a community of more than 280 members and has hosted over 90 events. That growth, she says, has been driven by consistency and a focus on quality.
“I think the growth has come from trust, consistency, and creating experiences that people genuinely want to come back to. We have focused on quality from the very beginning, not just in the food and wine itself, but in the atmosphere, the detail, and the feeling people leave with afterwards.”
A key part of the Society’s approach is building connections across the sector, bringing together consumers, producers, chefs and venues.
“Because food and drink are naturally social, but community does not build itself. It needs to be created, nurtured and given a space to grow. For me, community matters because it supports everyone involved.”
That focus on connection is at the heart of Consumer Day, which takes place this Sunday as part of Sommit Ireland. The event is designed to open up what is typically an industry-focused gathering to a wider audience.
“The idea behind the Consumer Day was to open the door wider and create a point of access for people who are passionate about food and drink, even if they are not working in the trade.”
On the day, visitors can expect a mix of food, wine and interaction with producers, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
“People can expect a day that feels lively, high-quality and full of discovery. There will be a mix of wine, food and producer interaction, with opportunities to taste, learn and engage directly with the people behind the products.”
The event is aimed at those who enjoy good food and drink and want to explore more, whether that’s discovering new wines or meeting the people behind them.
“We are hoping to attract a broad crowd of food and wine lovers, enthusiastic supporters of local hospitality, and people who may want an experience that feels a little more special and immersive than a standard event.”
For the Food and Drink Society, the event reflects its wider mission to bring people together through shared experiences.
SommiT is running from May 10th to 12th, the event will be held in a number of local venues including The Barbican Theatre, St Peter’s Parish Centre, and Scholars Townhouse, along with other locations around Drogheda.
