Uttar Pradesh is set to host vibrant food festivals in 2025, celebrating its rich culinary heritage. From Awadhi kebabs to Mathura’s peda, these events will promote local cuisines, boost tourism, and support small-scale vendors. With cultural performances and sustainable practices, the festivals aim to put UP’s gastronomic diversity on the global map.
UP’s 2025 Food Festivals to Celebrate Local Flavors
Uttar Pradesh, known for its diverse cultural tapestry, is gearing up to spotlight its culinary treasures through a series of food festivals in 2025. The state government, in collaboration with local tourism boards and culinary organizations, has planned these events to promote regional cuisines, attract tourists, and empower local food vendors. From the aromatic Awadhi biryanis of Lucknow to the sweet delights of Mathura and the street food of Varanasi, these festivals will offer a taste of UP’s gastronomic legacy.
Lucknow, the heart of Awadhi cuisine, will host the Awadh Food Festival in February 2025, featuring iconic dishes like galouti kebabs, nihari, and sheermal. Organized by the UP Tourism Department, the event will include live cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs and local karigars, showcasing traditional recipes passed down through generations. Visitors can expect vibrant bazaars with food stalls, cultural performances like qawwali, and workshops on Awadhi cooking techniques.
In Varanasi, the Kashi Street Food Mela is slated for March 2025, celebrating the city’s beloved chaat, kachori, and lassi. Held along the ghats, this festival will blend spirituality with gastronomy, offering a unique experience for tourists and locals alike. The event will also promote sustainable practices, with vendors encouraged to use biodegradable packaging and locally sourced ingredients to minimize environmental impact.
Mathura and Vrindavan will host the Braj Holi Food Fest during the Holi season, highlighting sweets like peda and laddoo, alongside savory dishes like kachori and puri-sabzi. This festival will combine culinary delights with the region’s vibrant Holi celebrations, featuring folk music, dance, and live dessert-making sessions. The state government aims to leverage this event to boost rural tourism and support small-scale sweet makers.
Agra, home to the Taj Mahal, will organize the Taj Culinary Carnival in November 2025, focusing on the city’s lesser-known culinary gems like petha and paratha. The festival will also showcase fusion dishes, blending Mughal influences with modern flavors, to appeal to younger audiences. Expect live food counters, chef competitions, and cultural shows that highlight Agra’s historical connection to Mughal cuisine.
These festivals are part of a broader initiative by the UP government to promote culinary tourism, which is projected to grow significantly, with the global culinary tourism market expected to reach USD 253 billion by 2029, according to Research and Markets. By highlighting local cuisines, the state aims to attract both domestic and international visitors, boosting the economy and creating opportunities for local vendors.
Sustainability will be a key focus, with organizers prioritizing locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices. Many festivals will feature “zero-waste” zones, where food waste is composted, and vendors use sustainable packaging. Additionally, celebrity chefs and food influencers will be roped in to conduct masterclasses, drawing crowds and enhancing the festivals’ appeal.
The UP government is also collaborating with online platforms to promote these events, ensuring real-time updates and ticket bookings through dedicated apps. Social media campaigns will highlight the festivals’ unique offerings, from live cooking shows to cultural performances, to engage a younger, tech-savvy audience.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from government announcements, tourism board releases, and industry reports available as of August 2025. Details about specific dates, venues, and participants may be subject to change. Always verify event details with official sources before planning your visit.