Tomatfestivalen 2025 – Almost Ready for a Festive Weekend on Finnøy

For more than 20 years, Tomatfestivalen has brought together children and adults, businesses and politicians, for fun-filled days with activities and culinary experiences. The festival was established to showcase the uniqueness of Finnøy and Ryfylke — its people, its produce and its history. With a strong foundation in local food and identity, the festival has grown into an annual highlight for many across the region.

This year’s festival takes place from August 14th to 17th, with the main day on Saturday, August 16th. On this day, the public is invited to enjoy a varied program featuring food markets, concerts and family-friendly activities. Minister of Climate and Environment Andreas Bjelland Eriksen will attend the opening alongside Mayor Tormod Wilson Losnedal.

Working Together to Further Develop the Festival
In preparation for this year’s festival, Tomatfestivalen has worked closely with TEAL to further develop the program and enhance the overall experience. The goal has been to bring in more relevant stakeholders, make full use of the festival area, and create a clearer and more cohesive festival profile — with the tomato and local food production in focus.

“Tomatfestivalen is a well-established event with a strong reputation, but the desire to give the tomato and local food production a more prominent role is an important and meaningful step,” says Heidi Netland Berge from TEAL, who is engaged as the festival coordinator.

Together with the festival board, several measures have been taken to expand and activate the festival grounds. Rogaland Havbrukspark is part of the experience this year, offering lobster tastings and guided tours at Norwegian Lobster Farm. At Bethel, there will be food tastings and mini-lectures. The local tomato growers will once again set up their tent — this year including a make-your-own pizza activity — and Madla Handelslag will present innovations from the Gladmat festival. Ryfylkekokken will provide food during the children’s activity trail “Startskuddet” on Friday, and the town center will be filled with a monster grill, entertainment, and a bustling atmosphere all day.

Program for All Ages
Tomatfestivalen has always been characterized by volunteerism and strong collaboration among local actors. This year’s program is no exception and builds on the great work done over many years. The festival offers activities for all ages. Thursday features a children’s disco at Kulturstova. Friday opens with the activity trail “Startskuddet” and a taco lunch, followed by a quiz and live concert at Dickins. Saturday is the big festival day, and in the evening, it’s time for the traditional «Tomato dance». Sunday wraps up with Finnøymarsjen and Griegløpet, as well as «Tre menn og en bobil» at Dickins. For those seeking professional insight, Tomatfestivalens Landbruksmøte will be held on Tuesday, August 19th, at Utsyn.

“I’ve met so many great people to work with, and we’ve ordered 20 degrees and no wind — so it’s going to be a fantastic weekend,” says festival coordinator Heidi Netland Berge.

Visit www.tomatfestivalen.no for the full program and more information.