In 2010 UNESCO declared French gastronomy a ‘world intangible heritage.’ In doing so, the classic multi-course meal and all the rites that go with it – namely the pairing of wines with dishes, table dressing, precise placing of water and wine glasses and cutlery – was forever marked a cultural practice worthy of protection.
Ever since, every Sept. 22, France has paid tribute to this highly regarded cultural asset with a nationwide celebration of all things food – the Fête de la Gastronomie. Well, all things French food anyway. Essentially, it’s treated as an opportunity for every person in France who’s passionate about food (read: all French people) to learn, be inspired and indulge themselves.
This year, more than 2,000 events across the country will showcase French culinary classics under the theme, ‘Terroirs: creativity and tradition’ (terroir roughly translates as local produce, or local specialty). They’ll include banquets, tastings, tours, contests, markets, exhibitions, food festivals and huge picnics. To find out more about the events on offer head over to the official Fête de la Gastronomie website.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
(Images: cumi&ciki, cwbuecheler, Paris by Mouth)
