Friday, June 27, 2025
The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) is set to host the “2025 International Cities of Gastronomy Fest, Macao” from July 11 to July 20. The event will be held at the Roman Amphitheatre Square and Legend Boulevard at Macau Fisherman’s Wharf. The festival, themed “Spices and Herbs,” is set to showcase an exciting blend of global cuisines and gastronomy, highlighting the culinary traditions of 34 UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy across 21 countries from six continents. The event aims to weave together the rich tapestry of global gastronomy, offering a platform for culinary exchange and tourism, while emphasizing Macao’s role as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
Gathering Culinary Cultures from Around the Globe
The “2025 International Cities of Gastronomy Fest” will bring together chefs, experts, and visitors to celebrate culinary traditions from every corner of the world. MGTO held a press conference on June 27 to announce the event’s impressive lineup, which includes participation from 34 cities from diverse nations, including seven Creative Cities from other fields, two Mainland China candidate cities, and two Culture Cities of East Asia 2025. The Fest aims to promote Macao as a global hub for culinary exchange, reinforcing its role in fostering innovation while preserving gastronomic traditions.
Three Major Highlights to Savor
The festival will feature three major highlights: the “International Gastronomy Promenade,” the “City of Gastronomy Showcase,” and the “International Gastronomy Forum, Macao.” The “International Gastronomy Promenade” will span 10 days, showcasing over 100 food booths representing 14 Creative Cities of Gastronomy globally, including cities from Mainland China, Southeast Asia, and Portugal. Portuguese-speaking countries will debut their booths at the event, offering a fresh cultural experience for visitors.
The Promenade will feature 1,000 dining seats spread across five catering zones, an increase of 42% from last year, to accommodate more guests.Guests can indulge in a variety of global cuisines while enjoying lively performances, including traditional Portuguese folk dances, vibrant street dance routines, and entertaining clown acts. The event will be a feast for both the eyes and the palate, providing an immersive experience of world-class gastronomy.
Culinary Artistry at the “City of Gastronomy Showcase”
The “City of Gastronomy Showcase” will be another key feature of the Fest, with chefs from 28 UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy demonstrating their culinary skills in over 60 cooking sessions. Focusing on the theme of “Spices and Herbs,” chefs will blend traditional spices and herbs into their dishes, creating a fusion of flavors and techniques. This gastronomic celebration aims to foster cultural exchange and offer a unique opportunity for attendees to sample the finest flavors from around the world.
The showcase will be available every day from 3:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., while the International Gastronomy Promenade will operate from 3:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. during weekdays and stay open until 11:30 p.m. on weekends.
Delving into Culinary Conversations at the International Gastronomy Forum
A highlight of the festival is the “International Gastronomy Forum, Macao,” scheduled for July 14 at the Convention and Exhibition Centre of Macau Fisherman’s Wharf. The forum, themed “The Spice of Life: Macao’s Culinary Connections,” will feature keynote speeches and panel discussions involving representatives from around 30 Creative Cities of Gastronomy, culinary professionals, and industry leaders. The discussions will explore the role of spices and herbs in global cuisines, showcasing the unique cultural significance and flavors that shape the food traditions of different regions.
Enhancing Visitor Accessibility
To ensure that visitors can easily access the event, MGTO will provide a free shuttle bus service with three routes covering key areas of Macau, including the Border Gate, Taipa Central Park, and the integrated resort hotels in Cotai. The shuttle service will run from 3:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on weekdays and until 11:30 p.m. on weekends, providing convenient transportation for both local residents and international guests.
Extensive Promotional Campaign to Attract Visitors
MGTO has launched an extensive online and offline promotional campaign to boost awareness of the festival. Collaborations with mainstream media, Macao e-payment platforms, and advertisements at Hong Kong International Airport aim to attract both local and international visitors. Online promotions on platforms like WeChat, Instagram, and YouTube, along with live streams by key influencers, will further extend the festival’s reach and bring attention to the culinary extravaganza.
Coordinated Efforts for a Seamless Experience
To ensure a smooth and successful event, MGTO has coordinated with various departments, including the Municipal Affairs Bureau, Labour Affairs Bureau, and Public Security Police Force, among others. These efforts are focused on ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the event, with logistics, health measures, and environmental concerns being addressed meticulously.
The “2025 International Cities of Gastronomy Fest, Macao” is set to offer a remarkable celebration of global cuisine, cultural exchange, and culinary heritage, promising an extraordinary experience for all attendees. With its focus on spices and herbs, the event will showcase Macao’s rich gastronomic heritage while fostering international collaboration and tourism, reinforcing the city’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
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