The title of European Region of Gastronomy will be held in 2027 by Harghita County, according to the official decision of IGCAT (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism). The award ceremony will take place next year, on February 6, during a festive event.
An international jury of experts from IGCAT visited Harghita County from October 6 to 11, 2024, to evaluate the local gastronomic heritage, community initiatives, and efforts towards sustainable tourism.
Dr. Diane Dodd, the president of IGCAT and the founder of the World Region of Gastronomy Award, emphasized the uniqueness of the cultural values in Harghita, the natural harmony of the landscape, and the close collaboration among local communities.
The gastronomic heritage of Harghita County reflects the convergence of Hungarian, Romanian, Armenian, and Szekler traditions, which will be developed in the spirit of sustainability and innovation, as stated in the press release.
"The consortium that coordinated the candidacy aims to create a sustainable food ecosystem that supports the local economy, preserves cultural values, and enriches European gastronomic diversity. The main message: Taste Harghita County!" the source emphasized.
At the same time, the consortium has already begun planning gastronomic programs and events for 2027.
The Harghita Intercommunity Development Association (Visit Harghita) initiated the candidacy for the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2027 in 2023.
The consortium that submitted the application file is composed of Harghita County Council, Harghita Intercommunity Development Association (Visit Harghita), the municipalities of Miercurea-Ciuc, Odorheiu Secuiesc, and Gheorgheni, Sapientia University, as well as several agencies and associations in the area.
According to Visit Harghita, "The European Regions of Gastronomy (nominated and awarded), selected and coordinated by IGCAT (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism), aim to contribute to improving the quality of life of citizens by highlighting the importance of cultural and gastronomic uniqueness."
Moreover, they encourage culinary creativity and innovation, promote culinary education and circular economy, enhance sustainable tourism, and support the well-being and health of communities and the environment.