Qingdao WCNA to host trio of major food festivals

A scene from the 24th Chinese Food Festival & the 1st China Ocean Food Culture Festival. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Qingdao West Coast New Area is set to become a culinary hub from Sept 12 to 14, when it will host a trio of major events: the 26th Chinese Food Festival, the 3rd China Ocean Food Culture Festival, and the 2025 Ethnic Food Culture Festival. A public food carnival will also run from Sept 5 to 14, promising a vibrant celebration of food and culture.

Centered on the themes of "Chinese Taste, Ocean Industry, Ethnic Features, and a Festival for the People", the event will feature nine key sections, including opening and closing ceremonies, food displays, and supply chain exhibitions. The festivals are expected to attract over 100,000 attendees.

A highlight will be the release of the 2025 Catering Industry Annual Report, along with awards for the top 100 industry leaders and the first batch of national-standard green restaurants and the recognition of best-selling delicacies and innovative dishes.

The festivals will feature an extensive public exhibition. Five major zones will showcase landmark foods, premium ingredients, AI smart kitchens, international seafood trade and a carnival selling a wide variety of Chinese cuisine.

A series of matchmaking events focused on seafood trade, ethnic ingredients, hotel and restaurant procurement, and the catering supply chain are expected to facilitate over 100 business agreements.

Over 10 high-level forums and competitions are planned. The festivals will serve as a dynamic platform for both industry dialogue and business opportunities. High-level forums and conferences will bring together industry leaders, scholars, and investors to discuss key issues like industry upgrades, internationalization, and digital transformation.