Doing the Christmas dinner shop? Start at Darina Allen’s favourite farmer’s market

It’s the most important dinner of the year for many.
So if you’re the cook this Christmas, it’s a good idea to get things off on the right foot by choosing the very best ingredients for your festive feast.
What began in 2000 as a modest gathering of a handful of farmers and food producers, Midleton Farmer’s Market has flourished into one of Ireland’s premier markets. Founded by Darina Allen of Ballymaloe Cookery School, Ted Murphy, then a local town councillor, and a number of passionate producers, the market was among the very first of its kind in Ireland and helped to ignite the country’s modern-day farmers’ market movement.
Bring a big bag
Every Saturday, rain or shine, the Fair Green in Midleton is transformed into a bustling marketplace. Stalls brim with fresh vegetables, free-range meats, artisan cheeses, preserves, home-baked treats, and fresh flowers from 9am to 1pm.
This year, to cap 12 months of 25th anniversary celebrations, the market is planning a special Christmas instalment on Saturday, December 20th, 2025.
“As 2025 draws to a close, the market takes on a festive atmosphere for the remainder of December, offering the perfect opportunity for shoppers to stock up on Christmas essentials while enjoying the spirit of the season.” they told us.
“From artisan food to seasonal produce and freshly baked Christmas cakes, there will be something for everyone.”

