Within the framework of the “Crete European Region of Gastronomy 2026” initiative, the Region of Crete extends an open call to creators/producers of local gastronomic gifts and artisanal gifts related to gastronomy to take part in the Pan-Cretan Gastronomic Gift Competition 2026.
The aim of the competition is to highlight the relevant products with which Crete will be represented as a Region in the international competition “World Food Gift Challenge 2026”.
The competition is co-organized by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts & Tourism (IGCAT), the Region of Crete and the Educational Development Ploigos and will take place on May 19, 2026 in Heraklion, Crete.
Deadline for Submission of Applications: Monday, March 16, 2026
*For a valid submission, the terms and conditions and instructions for participation must be followed as described in detail below.
A few words about the World Food Gift Challenge competition
The World Food Gift Challenge is an international competition that awards distinctions and offers international visibility to high-quality, handmade gastronomic gifts and related crafts originating from the IGCAT World and European Gastronomy Regions.
Through the competition, participating regions have the opportunity to support small and medium-sized producers/creators of their traditional products, highlighting the stories that connect these items to their region of origin, thus creating added value for their place.
The competition aims to enable local producers and creators to capitalize on the ever-growing demand of visitors for exceptional gastronomic souvenirs, which are characterized by authenticity, uniqueness and sustainability.
See more about the terms of participation and the submission of candidacy here.
Source: ibo.crete.gov.gr