Macao gastronomy fest
Macao is hosting the International Cities of Gastronomy Fest through March 29, showcasing culinary culture, creativity and urban food innovation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. (unesco.org) The event reinforces Macao’s role as a testbed for city‑level culinary programming and food tourism. (unesco.org)
The Fest has brought together 38 UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy representing 22 countries, plus ten additional Creative Cities in other fields such as Music and Film, marking the largest turnout in the event’s history. (gcs.gov.mo) Organisers laid out five major highlights for the programme: the International Gastronomy Promenade, City of Gastronomy Showcase, the International Gastronomy Forum, a World Wines Lounge, and a Global Goodies Market — the last two are new additions for 2026. (macaotourism.gov.mo) The main festival footprint is centred on Roman Amphitheatre Square and Legend Boulevard at Macau Fisherman’s Wharf, with a new community venue along Rua de Cantão and Rua de Xangai in the ZAPE district to broaden local participation. (macaotourism.gov.mo) Organisers say the International Gastronomy Promenade features about 100 food booths and will showcase culinary offerings from nearly 40 Creative Cities across six continents. (macaonews.org) The opening ceremony included remarks from MGTO Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes and UCCN Secretary Denise Bax, and was attended by Macao’s Secretary for Economy and Finance, Tai Kin Ip; the programme also features appearances by U.N. Tourism’s ambassador and social media creator Khaby Lame. (gcs.gov.mo) MGTO and the Macao government frame the Fest as an integrated “Gastronomy + Tourism + Industry” initiative intended to deepen intercity collaboration and leverage culinary programming for tourism and local-industry linkages. (dst.gov.mo)
