Mid and East Antrim celebrates culinary excellence at Balmoral Show 2025

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman William McCaughey with representatives from Becca’s Bakes NI.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council proudly showcased the region’s vibrant food, drink, and agri-food sector at this year’s Balmoral Show, Northern Ireland’s premier agricultural event.

Held annually, the show provided a dynamic platform for local producers to display their award-winning products, share their stories, and connect with thousands of visitors eager to explore the Borough’s rich culinary heritage.

From artisan baked goods to craft spirits and heritage-rich food experiences, the Mid and East Antrim stand in the NI Food Pavilion was a hive of activity, offering attendees a chance to sample high-quality products and engage with passionate producers.

The initiative underscored the Council’s commitment to promoting the Borough as a must-visit destination for authentic food and drink experiences while fostering economic growth within the local agri-food sector.

A Showcase of Local Talent

The Balmoral Show, a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s agricultural calendar, attracted food enthusiasts, industry buyers, and families alike, all eager to discover the best of the region’s produce.

Mid and East Antrim’s presence was marked by a diverse array of businesses, including Dobbins Inn, Becca’s Bakes NI, Linda’s Original, The Harbourview Hotel, Vanilla Boxx, and Green Thumb HQ.

Each business brought its unique offerings to the fore, from delectable baked treats to innovative food experiences, highlighting the creativity and quality embedded in the Borough’s food scene.

Visitors to the Council’s stand had the opportunity to meet the producers, sample their products, and learn about the stories behind the flavours. This direct engagement not only showcased the authenticity of Mid and East Antrim’s offerings but also opened doors for businesses to connect with new customers and potential buyers, paving the way for future growth.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman William McCaughey with representatives from Dobbins Inn.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman William McCaughey, expressed his pride in the region’s representation at the event, stating:

“The Balmoral Show is a highlight in Northern Ireland’s calendar, and I was delighted to see so many of our talented food and drink producers and experiences representing Mid and East Antrim.

“It was a brilliant opportunity to showcase the incredible quality and passion our local businesses and vibrant food and drink network bring to the table.”

Driving Economic Growth and Food Tourism

The Council’s participation in Balmoral Show 2025 forms part of a broader strategy to champion local enterprise and position Mid and East Antrim as a leading food and drink destination.

By providing a platform for businesses to shine, the Council is fostering collaboration across the agri-food sector and driving economic development in the region.

Ursula O’Loughlin, Head of Economic Development, highlighted the significance of the initiative, saying:

“Council’s support of businesses to showcase at Balmoral 2025 reinforced our strong commitment to championing local enterprise, encouraging collaboration across the agri-food sector, and driving economic growth within the Borough.

“The success of the showcase reflects the growing reputation of Mid and East Antrim as a food and drink destination where quality and tradition come together.”

The event also served as a catalyst for promoting food tourism in the Borough. By showcasing the region’s culinary heritage, Mid and East Antrim is attracting visitors keen to explore its food and drink offerings, from farm-to-table experiences to artisan products rooted in tradition.

This focus on food tourism not only boosts local businesses but also enhances the Borough’s reputation as a destination for authentic, high-quality culinary experiences.

A Bright Future for Mid and East Antrim’s Food Scene

The success of Mid and East Antrim’s showcase at Balmoral Show 2025 is a testament to the strength and diversity of its food and drink sector. The event provided a vital opportunity for local producers to gain visibility, forge new partnerships, and celebrate the region’s culinary heritage on a prestigious stage.

As the Borough continues to build its reputation as a food and drink destination, initiatives like this demonstrate the power of collaboration between local government and businesses. By investing in the agri-food sector, Mid and East Antrim is not only supporting its producers but also creating a lasting economic impact that benefits the entire community.

For those who missed the showcase, Mid and East Antrim’s food and drink producers continue to welcome visitors to explore their offerings, whether through local markets, food festivals, or direct experiences at their establishments.

With its blend of tradition, innovation, and quality, the Borough is firmly establishing itself as a must-visit destination for food lovers across Northern Ireland and beyond.