Over 800,000 people attend Adana “Taste Festival”

The 8th International Adana Taste (food) Festival drew more than 800,000 visitors this year. Adana Governor shared insights on the event, held from October 17-20 at Merkez Park under the theme “Adana with Its Roots.”

He expressed satisfaction with the public interest in the festival, noting, “During the festival, all 13,000 beds in Adana’s hotels were fully occupied.” He explained that the event not only promoted Adana’s rich culinary culture, history, and tourism assets but also generated a significant economic impact, stating, “With spending by both our citizens and guests from other parts of Turkey and abroad, the festival created an economic value of 3.7 billion Turkish lira.”

He also highlighted the festival’s contribution to Adana’s tourism, emphasizing the city’s status as a notable brand in culinary tourism. He went on to explain, “We aim to establish a destination incorporating Adana, Hatay, Gaziantep, and possibly adding Kahramanmaraş, Nevşehir, Mersin, and Şanlıurfa. We are grateful for the support from local mayors in this initiative.”

THE FESTIVAL SITE FEATURED 76 BOOTHS – 500,000 ŞİŞ KEBAP (SKEWERS MEAT) 400,000 BOTTLES OF ŞALGAM WERE CONSUMED

The festival site featured 76 booths, including those set up by women’s cooperatives and municipalities, where various local products were sold. Köşger noted that approximately 500,000 skewers of meat and 400,000 bottles of şalgam (fermented turnip juice) were consumed during the festival.

The Governor commended Adana’s hospitality and the dedication of supporting companies, saying, “The 8th International Adana Taste Festival has become a cherished event, leaving a lasting impression thanks to the efforts of all involved. As a city that has embraced the festival culture, we are proud to have concluded this event with great success. I believe this festival, as an Adana brand, will continue its culinary journey for many years to come.” He thanked the institutions, organizations, and residents who contributed to the festival’s organization.