Culinary traditions are a reflection of a people’s culture and spirit. Whether you want to engage in some different culture, learn a few new recipes, or simply fill your belly, we share with you some great international food festivals. For those who like to travel and pamper their palate, these events will not disappoint.
Salon du Chocolat – Paris, France
More than 500 exhibitors gather, including top chefs, united by their passion and a taste for the richest of human innovation – chocolate. Creativity and temptation are the hallmarks of the presentations at this festival. There is also a fashion show with chocolate designs and various other activities.
Oktoberfest – Munich, Germany
The quintessential festival of Germany, Oktoberfest has been celebrated since 1810. In it, only beer that complies with the Reinheitsgebot (purity law) and that is brewed in Munich can be served. There is a parade, and the event is inaugurated when the mayor opens the first keg of beer. Attendees enjoy a range of sliced meats, sausages, schnitzel, sauerkraut, and mash alongside their steins.
Taste of Chicago – Chicago, Illinois, United States
The Windy City has been holding one of the largest food festivals since 1980. It not only offers culinary delights such as its famous Chicago-style pizza, hot dogs, grilled ribs, Polish sausages, and Eli’s cheesecake, but also showcases live music on multiple stages.
Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival – Galway, Ireland
Since 1954, this event has been held on the last weekend of September, when the oyster season begins, and where festival-goers can enjoy the native oyster of West Ireland, as well as a variety of seafood fare from different parts of the world. Activities include two Oyster Opening Championships and a Masquerade Gala Mardi-Gras. There is also a seafood trail, street parades, a silent disco, cooking demonstrations, and workshops.
Tokyo Ramen Show – Tokyo, Japan
Over 40 chefs from all over Japan serving up unique regional varieties of ramen, such as bowls of shoyu, tonkotsu, and shio. A must-attend event for lovers of this classic cuisine.
Fiera Internazionale del Tartufo Bianco d’Alba – Piedmont, Italy
The International Alba White Truffle Fair has been held for 88 years and, yep, you guessed it, the region’s white truffle is the special guest star. There are several tastings to be had, all based around this delicacy as well as dishes that incorporate other local ingredients.
San Sebastian Gastronomika – San Sebastian, Spain
Bringing together the best of Basque and Spanish cuisines and recognizing outstanding chefs as they prepare various dishes live on stage. A festival in which you can travel the world through flavors while remaining in one place.
Crave Sydney International Food Festival – Sydney, Australia
At Crave, attendees will find more than 500 gastronomic events throughout Australia, with fare served alongside the country’s best wines. Highlights include market nights, wine exhibitions, gala dinners, and seafood festivals. Another focal point is the 100-mile challenge, where chefs prepare dishes with ingredients sourced from within a 100-mile radius.
