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India is a land of diverse tastes and traditions, and its food festivals reflect this rich tapestry of culinary delights. In this exploration, we'll take a journey through some of India's most captivating food festivals that every food lover should experience. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the serene banks of the Ganges, these festivals offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of Indian cuisine.
Food festivals in India are more than just a gathering of people; they are a celebration of culture, community, and of course, food. These vibrant events showcase the country's culinary diversity, with each region offering its unique flavours and specialities. Whether you're a fan of spicy street food or the rich and aromatic dishes of North India, there's something here to tickle every palate. So, let's embark on this gastronomic journey and discover the mouthwatering treasures that await at the food festivals of India.
Food festivals in India worth exploring
1. National street food festival
Presented by the capital city of India, it is one of the most famous food festivals in India. With a perfect blend of both local and traditional foods, it provides a perfect treat for food lovers. Street food vendors from 28 states of India take part in this grand feast. About 120 food stalls would be set up and the top 10 food vendors would be awarded. Along with this, International panel discussions on issues of street food vendors worldwide, on street food and vendors, especially women vendors make this food festival an extraordinary one.
Location: New Delhi
2. The grub fest
Grub Fest is one of the largest food festivals in India which is the only one of its kind. It allows both established ones like Karim’s and several food trucks to participate in the event. People who visit this food festival can relish the amazing tastes along with a variety of fun activities and music. The event is much awaited by people interested in culinary aesthetics, food artistry and food photography.
Location: Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Jaipur
3. Goa food and cultural festival
This is a unique food and cultural festival organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa. It exhibits the affluent legacy and the distinctive traditions which make the food habits of the people living there. With over 52 stalls, Goan cuisine is something that will captivate the taste buds of food lovers. The festival is made lively with performances on the vibrant Goan folklore and customs.
Location: Multiple locations across Goa
4. Mei Ram-ew
This ethnic food festival of Meghalaya serves the local tastes of Meghalaya. It takes place in December at Sacred Grove, Mawphlang, Meghalaya. To promote the preservation of different locally-grown foods that are prepared by the indigenous communities of Northeast India, this small-scale fest is organised by the North-East Slow Food and Agrobiodiversity Society (NESFAS)
Location: Meghalaya
5. The Streets of Kolkata food festival
Kolkata is a city famous for street food. The natives enjoy having different kinds of them at the ‘Streets of Kolkata’ food festival which happens at City Centre Salt Lake. The major attraction is that it offers innovative food items made of bamboo shoots, gondhoraj lemon etc. Famous sweets of the state are also available here. It is a unique destination for foodies to delve into the authentic street food style of Kolkata.
Location: Kolkata
6. Navi Mumbai food truck fest
Another popular street food festival in India, where food is cooked in trucks and served with a side of love. You can be pleased by the wide variety of platters that attract your gaze. This is the city’s most anticipated event that offers the authentic cuisine of Mumbai. Along with other activities for entertainment, a visit to this food fest will leave your tummy and heart filled.
Location: Navi Mumbai
7. Avarebele Mela
Avarebele Mela Food Festival is a culinary fair that focuses on showcasing and celebrating dishes made from avarebele (hyacinth bean or field bean). These festivals are quite popular in Karnataka, especially during the winter season when avarebele is in season. The common dishes you might find here are Avarebele dosa, avarebele upma, pulao, usli, kheer and many more dishes made of avarebele.
Location: Bangalore
8. The Culinary Arts Curation by The Locavore
Not exactly a food festival, but this one deserved a mention. Locavore is a community that seeks to offer information on the food we consume and the impact of food on people and the environment. At the Serendipity Arts festival conducted in Panjim, Goa, The Locavore creates a new realm of food culture through the medium of art and learning. The initiative weaves together diverse disciplines of art- visual, performative, culinary, film, literature etc. In 2023, they are working with the message 'Doing Good Through Good Food' by reinforcing communal unity. They aim to build the relationship between people and food and delve into the lesser-known lives of local food producers. The food stalls here provide regional delicacies of Goa.
Location: Panjim, Goa
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