This year’s Fest comprises three main highlights: the “International Gastronomy Promenade”, the “City of Gastronomy Showcase”, and the “International Gastronomy Forum, Macao”. Each feature engages with the public with rich culinary diversity of the Creative Cities network.
The International Gastronomy Promenade features booths, mainly spreading across one long strip at the venue, from Mainland China, other parts of Asia, Portuguese-speaking countries, and Macao, including those from integrated resort enterprises.
The catering area has been expanded to accommodate 1,000 dining seats, a 42% increase from the previous edition. The event also includes daily cultural performances at multiple stages, featuring local groups and international participants.
In addition to an array of food booths, the Fest also features over 60 cooking shows under the City of Gastronomy Showcase, led by chefs from 28 UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy. These sessions highlight the creative use of spices and herbs in iconic regional dishes. The showcase serves not only as live culinary demonstrations but also as educational opportunities for exchange between chefs and visitors.
On July 14th, the International Gastronomy Forum, Macao takes place at the Convention and Exhibition Centre of Macau Fisherman’s Wharf. Themed “The Spice of Life: Macao’s Culinary Connections”, the forum features two keynote speeches and three panel sessions, covering the following topics: “A History and Legacy of Spices: Tracing Fusion Cuisines’ Culinary Roots, “A Symphony of Flavours: Fusion Cuisine in Modern Macao and Beyond”, and “Spice as a Bridge: Celebrating Cultural Fusion and Communities”.”.
The Forum welcomes participants from over 30 Creative Cities, UNESCO representatives, culinary professionals, tourism stakeholders and experts from the culture and creative sectors.
To facilitate access to the Fest, the organizer is offering free shuttle bus service along three major routes, connecting the venue with Border Gate, Taipa, and Cotai.
The “2025 International Cities of Gastronomy Fest, Macao” is organized under Macao’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, positioning itself as a platform for gastronomic and cultural exchange. Through a combination of tastings, culinary demonstrations and dialogue, the Fest supports the city’s tourism development strategy and is part of the “tourism + gastronomy” initiative, which seeks to diversify Macao’s offerings and stimulate the local economy.
Learn more here: https://www.macaotourism.gov.mo/en/article/events/gastronomy-fest-2025
