Gemo Fest food, drink festival is debuting in Zugdidi in western Georgia

The western Georgian city of Zugdidi is hosting its first-ever Gemo Fest food and drink festival this weekend, showcasing an array of traditional, rare, and little-known dishes of the Samegrelo region, the National Tourism Administration of the country said on Thursday.

The festival is taking place in the city’s Botanical Garden and featuring a food zone, an agricultural market, and a children’s entertainment corner, the body added.

Local chefs hailing from different municipalities of the region are participating in the event. The Administration said aspiring participants had already met experienced chefs and received insights through training and master classes.

A music show is also scheduled to entertain the audience of the festival.

With its focus on promoting regional gastronomy and fostering cultural exchange, the inaugural Gemo Fest in Zugdidi aims to champion local cuisine, support regional entrepreneurs and families, and boost tourism by attracting both domestic and international visitors, the Administration said.