Our favourite chocolate-filled Festival is returning!
It’s safe to say we at Dufferin, alongside many other chocolate lovers and foodies, are extremely excited for the return of the Finnebrogue Artisan Hans Sloane Chocolate & Fine Food Festival taking place from 14th – 16th September.
Now is the time to mark it in the diary and cancel all your plans for that weekend as we give you the rundown of the Festival which was founded in 2010 to commemorate Northern Ireland’s founding chocolatier and Killyleagh’s most famous son, Sir Hans Sloane! Born in Killyleagh in 1660, Hans Sloane later became one of the most famous men of this time as a pioneer in milk chocolate development who first introduced Europe to the fine recipe.
The festival will kick off on Friday 14th September with the Chocolate Ball which will take place in the exquisite grounds of Killyleagh Castle, one of Ireland’s longest-inhabited castles. Guests can expect a mouth-watering chocolate-inspired menu prepared and designed by Chef Simon Dougan of Yellow Door and world-class entertainment following dinner, allowing guests to dance the night away in a stunning marquee against the backdrop of Killyleagh Castle. If you’re interested in attending, make sure to grab your tickets
Following the wonderful Chocolate Ball on the Friday night, the Festival will continue Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th where guests can enjoy delicious chocolatey goodness from a range of local chocolatiers alongside lots of family fun with activities and entertainment for all ages. Featuring an abundance of award-winning chocolatiers and artisan producers, many may recognise a few favourites from previous years including Neary Nogs and Wee ChoCo! Make sure to visit headline sponsors Finnebrogue who are renowned for fine local produce including amazing wagyu beef, recently launched Naked Bacon and artisan sausages. Visitors can also enjoy more tasty treats and yummy drinks from Streamvale Farm, Indie Fude, Kilmegan Cider or Copeland Gin!
For further information on all events taking place and to book tickets visit hanssloane.com or follow the Killyleagh Chocolate Festival on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
Why not make a weekend of it and enjoy a two-night stay with bed and breakfast at Dufferin in a premier room with some delicious complimentary chocolate for £160! We, alongside the many friendly faces of Killyleagh look forward to welcoming you in just under one month!