Each year on the third weekend of September, Elliston, Newfoundland - the root cellar capital of the world - becomes the backdrop for a two-day celebration of Newfoundland & Labrador Food, Culture, Land & Sea.

Sample Newfoundland’s most sought-after commodity – cod. Newfoundland’s award-winning chefs compete in an all-out war creating the ultimate cod dishes. Indulge in them all, as you sip cocktails and wine and determine who will be crowned victorious.

COD WARS

THE HIKE

Hike along the rugged coastline of Elliston, Newfoundland, sampling culinary creations from world-famous chefs while sipping wine and local craft beer. Musicians play along with the music of the ocean while waves crash against the rustic cliffs that guide your trail. Lay in the grass and gaze at the birds flying overhead while you indulge in decadent desserts and locally roasted coffee that awaits you at the end of your journey.

THE FEAST

Dine in the wilderness, under giant white tents lined with rows of burlap draped picnic tables. Meet and mingle with fellow guests while you Feast family style on a seven-course meal created through a collaboration of our amazing chefs. Following the meal dance the night away with live entertainment from Newfoundland musicians.

STORIES

We’ve welcomed some incredible writers who have shared their take on the festival, bringing its flavours, sounds, and coastal beauty to life. Here are a few of our favourite stories.

AN EDIBLE ROAD TRIP

We learned about Roots, Rants, and Roars while we were on our historic root cellar tour last year, and it immediately topped our ‘festivals-to-go-to list.’ We’d been so charmed by the community of Elliston during our road trip, it felt unreal to be back on those familiar shores less than a year later.

The Roots, Rants, and Roars Festival is a celebration of the bounty of land and sea.

WANDERLYNDS

We were greeted at the festival grounds with a glass of champagne and a cheese board by Five Brothers Artisan Cheese, complimented by homemade pickles from The Jewish Deli.

The weekend kicks off Friday night with the Cod Wars, where renowned chefs across the island compete for the best cod dish and the title 'King of the Cod.'

FREE CANDIE

Elliston has quick become one of my favourite places in Newfoundland, and the Roots Rants and Roars Festival this week was the icing on the cake. Or the dressing on the cod. Or the beans on the pork belly. Whatever.

What is Roots Rants and Roars? It’s a “regional celebration of the Natural Gifts of Newfoundland and Labrador Food, Culture, Land and Sea.”