A Weekend of Culinary Delight The 2024 “Chinese Culinary Gala” and the inaugural China (Quanzhou) Silk Road Snack Festival and International Food Carnival, co-hosted by the China Cuisine Association and Quanzhou Cultural Tourism Group, officially opened yesterday on Quanzhou’s historic West Street and Zhongshan Road. Over three days, more than 500 specialty snacks from across the globe will delight thousands of food enthusiasts.

　　A Culinary Adventure Around the World

　　Visitors to the four main food exhibition areas were greeted by the tantalizing aromas of hotpots and street snacks. By early evening, stalls selling matsutake buns and grilled lamb chops already had long queues. The rich Huainan beef soup and the crispy, juicy “Fourteenth Prince” roasted chicken were crowd favorites. “Crispy outside, tender inside, perfectly seasoned!” praised local resident Mr. Wang.

　　Delicacies such as spiced herbal cookies, crispy pastries, and the intensely spicy “Heartbreak Cold Noodles” offered unique taste experiences. Classic Quanzhou treats like fish rolls, glutinous rice balls, and preserved fruits shared the spotlight with iconic regional dishes from across China and international flavors from Vietnam, Singapore, and Indonesia.

　　Cultural Performances and Heritage Showcase

　　The festival masterfully blended food with cultural experiences. The opening ceremony featured the thunderous drum performance Echoes of the Maritime Silk Road and a traditional puppet play by Quanzhou's String Puppet Theatre. The Fujian Quanzhou Arts School performed Charming Coastal Rhythms, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.

　　Live music and folk performances on West Street’s theatre stage added to the event's lively atmosphere. Culinary demonstrations highlighting Quanzhou’s culinary history played on large screens, captivating visitors like Mr. Zhao from Beijing, who admired the artisanship behind each dish.

　　Interactive Food Experiences

　　Beyond tasting, festivalgoers could join DIY workshops crafting traditional snacks such as rice balls, sugar figurines, and spring rolls. A sugar-coated fruit-making session drew eager participants, with children learning hands-on skills while having fun.

　　Interactive zones like “Foodie Fortune Draw” and creative installations such as giant bowls and spoons became popular photo spots. Social media users shared their excitement， “So many famous brands from everywhere!” and “It’s as crowded as Chinese New Year!”