We’re not mad at this one. Not mad at all.

Following two years of sold-out success, the Ballymaloe Festival of Food returns from May 15th–17th, transforming the beautiful grounds of Ballymaloe House into a full-blown culinary playground for the weekend. Think big-name chefs, immersive dining experiences, hands-on workshops, producer tastings — and, this year, one very unexpected guest.

Yes, Bosco is on the lineup.

The iconic Irish puppet — a five-year-old with bright red hair, a squeaky voice and a habit of popping out of a magical box — will appear as part of a workshop titled Bosco Ferments with Maria, taking place at noon on Saturday in the festival’s Big Shed.

For anyone who grew up glued to the telly in the 80s and 90s, Bosco needs little introduction. Produced by Lambert Puppet Theatre, the beloved children’s show ran from 1979 to 1991 and followed Bosco and various presenters as they explored the world through the famous “magic door”.

The workshop itself will be led by Maria — a community herbalist, fermenter and raw milk micro-dairy worker at the Ballymaloe Cookery School — who will share her knowledge of fermentation and food for health. Her sessions are known for selling out quickly, thanks to their lively mix of practical tips, storytelling and hands-on learning.

In other words: expect jars, cultures, gut health wisdom — and possibly the most nostalgic fermentation assistant imaginable.

If you’ve ever wanted to learn about sauerkraut while standing beside a childhood TV icon, this might be your moment. And if you’re bringing the kids along, it’s a rare chance to introduce them to Bosco while sneaking in a little food education at the same time.

Fermentation and childhood nostalgia? A surprisingly perfect pairing.