Kuching Festival Food Fair 2026: Extended Celebration to Host 65 UNESCO Gastronomy Cities

The Kuching Festival Food Fair, one of Kuching’s most anticipated culinary event is set to return with more grandeur than ever this 2026.

Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng has officially announced that the Kuching Festival Food Fair 2026 will take place from July 22 to August 16.

This year’s schedule is particularly special as it has been extended to 26 days – two days longer than the traditional duration – to coincide with the Sarawak Day celebrations, giving locals and tourists more time to indulge in the festivities.

In a major boost to Kuching’s reputation as a culinary powerhouse, the Mayor revealed that the 2026 edition will take on a global flavor.

Representatives from 65 UNESCO Cities of Gastronomy, spanning over 30 countries, are expected to visit during the festival.

This international presence is set to add a vibrant diversity to the event, showcasing Kuching’s unique position within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and fostering a cross-cultural exchange of flavors.

Calling local vendors to participate in Kuching Festival Food Fair 2026

For local entrepreneurs and food enthusiasts looking to participate, the application window is brief.

Mayor Wee announced that stall applications will open on March 9, with a strict deadline of 4:00 PM on March 17.

Potential vendors are required to submit their forms along with necessary identification, business licenses, or SSM registration.

To ensure a high standard of presentation, applicants must also provide high-quality photographs of the delicacies they intend to sell.

The festival structure offers various opportunities for different scales of business through three distinct stall categories.

Hub stalls are priced at RM700, while single stalls are available for RM1,400. For those seeking maximum exposure, premium stalls are set at RM3,900.

The Mayor noted that these fees have been slightly adjusted to reflect the additional two days of the festival, and a refundable deposit of RM300 will be required for all successful applicants.

Redundant food items are discouraged

To maintain a fresh and exciting experience for visitors at the Kuching Festival Food Fair 2026, the Council is prioritizing variety and innovation.

Mayor Wee cautioned that if too many operators apply to sell the same “common” dishes, a lucky draw system will be implemented to decide who receives a permit.

This approach encourages vendors to think outside the box and ensures that the fair doesn’t become oversaturated with identical food items.

Traders are being urged to push the boundaries of traditional cooking by showcasing their unique culinary skills.

The Mayor suggested that operators consider reinventing classic Sarawakian dishes or experimenting with “fusion” concepts that blend local ingredients with international techniques.

By doing so, vendors can provide “delicious surprises” to patrons and elevate the overall quality of the city’s gastronomic offerings.

To know what more events are happening in Kuching, check our 2026 Event Calendar.