Reflecting as an Irish Food Festival MC

Stepping onto the festival stage as an MC is electric—there’s an undeniable buzz in guiding live cookery demos, creating real dialogue between chefs, and transforming crowds from spectators into active participants. My approach draws on decades of hands-on experience: as a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, former senior teacher at the world-renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School, executive coach, and someone who has walked the walk as an owner of an acclaimed café.

I don't just host—I bring demonstrations to life. Through lively banter, spontaneous audience Q&A, and seamless on-the-fly stage management, I ensure every chef shines and every festival-goer leaves inspired. It’s the skill-fuelled, interactive atmosphere that sets a remarkable MC apart and keeps audiences coming back for more. This is a role I adore and look forward to eah and every time, it is a privilege.

LINK: MC & Guest Speaker | Tracie Daly

From Challenges to the Spotlight

Since embracing the MC role in 2021, my journey has been filled with rich culinary adventures and industry connections. I’ve organised and led cookery demonstrations at the Ballymaloe Festival of Food, bringing together exceptional chefs from Ireland and beyond. Ensuring every moment runs smoothly, drawing the best from each chef with spirited dialogue, and keeping audiences engaged through hands-on participation is at the core of what I do.

It’s not just about the food on stage—it’s about fostering an inclusive festival culture. At the Coeliac Society’s Annual Gluten Free Roadshow, my three-year MC tenure has given me space to highlight gluten-free challenges, share attendee stories, and welcome acclaimed & esteemed experts to this essential annual stage. With 1 in 5 people in Ireland affected by gluten-related issues, I’m always learning and striving to deliver more knowledgeable, supportive events.

Celebrating Culinary Talent and Community

Nothing excites me more than creating signature festival moments—whether it’s leading the National Irish Steak Challenge or on stage at Taste of Sligo Food Festival with Ireland’s most inspiring chefs and producers. Each event bursts with creativity, community spirit, and connection, and my role is to keep that energy high.

Most recently, hosting the food circle demos at Flavours of Fingal (Ireland’s largest family-friendly county show) reminded me how essential it is to tell artisan producer stories, as well as the demonstrating chefs' story, facilitate hands-on cooking, and make every audience member feel involved.

At Savour Kilkenny's Taste Stage, I curate and MC a rotating cast of Ireland’s culinary stars, mixing established names with promising newcomers for an unforgettable festival experience. My partnership with LEO Kilkenny’s Foodpreneurs series further highlights my passion for championing new food ventures and helping founders share their stories live on stage.

Why the Right MC Matters

My journey—from that moment on my bakery floor to leading major festival stages—shapes everything I bring as an MC. I’ve known both success and setback, and bring strategic thinking, empathy, and principled leadership to every event. My integrity, a value instilled by my late father Malachy Daly, ensures every collaboration, every chef, and every audience gets my best. As an educator, coach, and mentor, I don't just entertain; I add real value by sharing knowledge, championing resilience, and encouraging open, honest conversations about business and food.

Link to PR: Cafe Consultant | Tracie Daly Food Business Coach | Mentor

Let’s Create Unforgettable Festival Experiences

Partnering with passionate chefs, organisers, and sponsors to design interactive, energetic, and meaningful food events is what I do best. If you want a dedicated, enthusiastic MC who makes every demonstration shine and every audience connect, let’s talk about bringing your next food festival to life.

Ready to elevate your event? Reach out at tracie@traciedaly.com and let’s create something truly memorable—together.