Goût de France

Name: Goût de France
Start: 2026-09-24
End: 2026-09-26
Location: Paris

A National Celebration of French Culinary Excellence

2026/09/24 - 2026/09/26

Every September, all of France transforms into a paradise for gourmands as the Fête de la Gastronomie sweeps the country. Held over three days on the fourth weekend of September, this festival offers locals and tourists alike the chance to immerse themselves in the rich world of French cuisine. From the bustling boulevards of Paris to the quaint villages of Provence, the air is filled with enticing aromas and the cheerful clinking of glasses, as France showcases its culinary prowess to the world.

Main Attractions

Culinary Demonstrations

At the heart of the festival are the captivating culinary demonstrations by renowned chefs. In city squares and small village markets, culinary masters create works of art using local ingredients. The sound of butter sizzling in hot pans, the rhythmic chopping of fresh herbs, and the aroma of slowly simmering sauces compose a symphony for the senses, drawing in eager onlookers.

Gourmet Markets

The festival brings an exciting twist to France's legendary markets. Stalls overflow with regional specialties: aromatic cheeses from the Alps, briny oysters from Brittany, and sun-kissed tomatoes from Provence. The vibrant colors of fresh produce delight the eyes, while the scent of freshly baked bread and the earthy aroma of truffles tease the nose. From velvety foie gras to crisp Champagne, visitors can savor artisan products, with every bite offering a journey through France's diverse terroirs.

Themed Banquets

As night falls, streets and squares across France come alive with communal feasts. Long tables draped in white linen stretch as far as the eye can see, adorned with flickering candles and bountiful centerpieces of local produce. Friends and strangers alike gather to enjoy multiple courses celebrating regional cuisine. The clinking of glasses, laughter, and hum of conversation create a convivial atmosphere that embodies the art of the French meal.

Cultural and Historical Background

The Fête de la Gastronomie began in 2011, initiated by the French Ministry of Economy in response to UNESCO's recognition of "The Gastronomic Meal of the French" as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2010. This festival aims to celebrate and preserve the culinary traditions of France while making them accessible to all.

For the French, this festival is about more than just food; it reflects their cultural identity. The festival embodies the French philosophy of "Art de Vivre" (the art of living), where meals are not merely about sustenance but are a social ritual that brings people together. It is a time when the entire nation pauses to savor the richness of its cuisine, from the simplest rustic pâté to the most refined creations of Michelin-starred restaurants.

Participants Voices

I stumbled upon this festival while traveling, and it completely transformed my trip. I have always considered myself a foodie, but experiencing the Fête de la Gastronomie was like a dream come true. My favorite memory was a cheese-tasting workshop where I met a local affineur (cheese maturer). She taught me the correct way to taste Comté and explained how its flavors change with aging. It was a revelation! Now, every bite of cheese feels like listening to a story of the land where it was born.

Growing up in a family of winemakers, this festival holds a special personal meaning for me. It’s a time to share our passion for wine with people from all walks of life. This year, I hosted a wine and chocolate pairing event. Watching people's surprised expressions as they discovered how a robust Cabernet Franc enhances the flavor of dark chocolate was priceless. Moments like these remind me why I fell in love with oenology in the first place.

Fun Facts

In 2017, over 11,700 events were held across France and abroad, attracting 3 million visitors.
The longest table set up for the festival, in Tours in 2015, spanned over one kilometer and hosted a seated dinner for 2,000 people.
Every year, the festival has a theme. For example, the 2017 theme was "Au Cœur du Produit" (At the Heart of the Product), inspiring unique events nationwide.
In 2018, the festival was renamed from "Fête de la Gastronomie" to "Goût de France" (Taste of France) to align with an international culinary initiative.