Credits: Visit Karelia / Harri Tarvainen

Saimaa European Region of Gastronomy 2024

The Saimaa region has been awarded the prestigious international European Region of Gastronomy status in recognition of Eastern Finland's unique food culture. In 2024, we celebrate this nomination by inviting visitors to experience the purity and uniqueness of Finnish Lakeland with all their senses. The year will be marked by various events that merge the cultural heritage, arts and food of the area in new, unprecedented ways. 

Saimaa – the centre of European gastronomic and cultural tourism

With the European Region of Gastronomy status, the Saimaa region has become a member of the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism network, which promotes the diversity and sustainability of food culture.

We are getting prepared  for year 2024 by cooperating accross provinces

In 2024 , we aim to make the Saimaa region an internationally interesting destination, food and culture being at the center.

The events in 2024 will be organised in close cross-provincial cooperation between South Savo, South Karelia and North Karelia inolving numerous food, culture and art professionals and organisations.

Application for the European Region of Gastronomy status

The application for the Saimaa European Region of Gastronomy award presents extensively our goals and measures for creating innovative products and events that combine food and culture, as well as tourist-friendly routes in the region.

Credits: Visit Karelia / Harri Tarvainen