The theme for this year’s 8th International Adana Flavor Festival has been announced as “Adana with Its Roots” to honor the rich history of Çukurova and Adana. The festival, which grows each year and welcomes world-renowned guests while exploring every aspect of gastronomy, is set to take place from October 17-20 at Adana’s Central Park, ready to welcome food enthusiasts.
Hosted by the Adana Governorship, in collaboration with the Adana Metropolitan Municipality, district municipalities, professional chambers, and NGOs, a press conference was held at Feriye to announce the festival. During the event, Governor Yavuz Selim Köşger delivered a speech, greeting the press and guests.
Governor Köşger: “Adana Reflects the Spirit of Its People Through Its Cuisine”
Governor Köşger emphasized that Adana is not only famous for its exceptional cuisine but also for the stories behind its culinary culture. He stated:
“Adana’s culinary heritage, shaped over centuries, reflects the hospitality, diligence, and vitality of its people. Our cuisine is a testament to our tradition of welcoming guests, bringing our culture to life through shared meals. Adana, with its unique location and a history dating back 10,000 years, has succeeded in blending its past and present to enrich its culinary synthesis. This year, we aim to showcase this deep-rooted heritage to the world through the theme ‘Adana with Its Roots,’ emphasizing our journey of building today on the wisdom of the past and taking confident steps into the future.”
“Each Year, We Raise Our Voice Even Louder”
Governor Köşger noted that festivalgoers would not only savor the unique flavors rooted in Çukurova’s fertile lands but also witness unforgettable moments with gastro shows from renowned local and international chefs. He highlighted the festival’s growing global reputation and its goal to establish Adana as a must-visit destination for gastronomy tourism.
He added:
“Last year, we hosted 923,000 visitors at the International Adana Flavor Festival. This year, we are thrilled to expect 1.5 million visitors. Over the four-day festival, we estimate that it will contribute approximately 3 billion TL to our local economy.”
Governor Köşger also emphasized the importance of sustainability in introducing Adana’s cuisine, highlighting efforts to preserve local products, traditional recipes, and natural farming methods while promoting eco-friendly practices and respect for nature.
The festival will also host the International Agriculture Summit, organized in collaboration with the Social Gastronomy Movement and Ebru Baybara Demir, to address global issues such as climate change, dwindling water and energy resources, agriculture, and access to healthy food. Panels under the theme “Çukurova – The Taste of the Land” will provide valuable insights for farmers, gastronomy professionals, and entrepreneurs.
“Chefs Will Cook and Distribute Meals for Those in Need”
As part of the festival, Adana will participate in the Universal Plate event to mark World Food Day on October 16, in collaboration with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Chefs will prepare and distribute meals to those in need, drawing attention to hunger and the importance of access to quality, nutritious food.
Governor Köşger concluded his speech with an invitation to everyone:
“Adana, a city that grows with its deep roots in the past and its forward-looking vision, will host a festival that reaches wider audiences, thanks to your support. I invite all participants and gastronomy enthusiasts to explore the world of flavors in Adana from October 17-20.”
Mayor Zeydan Karalar: “Adana with Its Roots Captures the Essence of the City”
Adana Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Zeydan Karalar announced plans to establish an Agriculture Academy in collaboration with Çukurova University. He highlighted Adana’s unique characteristics as one of the world’s oldest settlements, with its rivers, sea, history, nature, climate, and fertile lands contributing to its remarkable culinary diversity.
He added:
“Adana is not just about kebabs—it is home to over 400 unique dishes. While kebab is our iconic dish, our city offers a wealth of flavors waiting to be discovered. Come to Adana and experience the purest tastes of the land.”
A Festival Transforming Gastronomy Tourism
The Adana Flavor Festival has become a significant gastronomic event, attracting more participants and visitors each year. Panels featuring innovative speakers and workshops aim to inspire the next generation. The festival will run from October 17-20 at Adana’s Central Park, with activities including panels, workshops, gastro shows, and a young chefs’ competition.
The festival will also feature the Agriculture Summit on October 17 at the Adana Museum, organized in collaboration with Ebru Baybara Demir and the Social Gastronomy Movement, focusing on social gastronomy and sustainable practices.
Festival content coordinator Gökmen Sözen also gave a presentation during the press conference, providing a sneak peek into what visitors can expect.
Adana Flavor Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of food, culture, and sustainability, cementing Adana’s reputation as a culinary capital on the world stage.
