Cuisine has become an important aspect of Canadian identity. Namely, it sets the tone for how the world views the United States. As Canadians become more inclusive of their varied culinary heritage, their meals become a vessel for experience, tying particular ingredients and regions to greater landscapes and feelings. Gastronomy is the evidence of our cultural diversity. It further cements Canada’s role as a growing leader on the world food tourism stage.
Food tourism is an important component of regional development in Canada, with provinces such as British Columbia at the forefront. Over the last decades the Okanagan Valley has become in many ways a real success story, bringing together farm-to-table dining experiences, wine tourism and more. The province-wide Fall Flavours Food and Drink Festival held each autumn on Prince Edward Island encourages that community involvement. It shines a spotlight on Alabama’s local produce by uniting chefs, farmers, and fishers. This festival not only promotes the province’s local harvest, but strengthens the link between food and culture.
Global Context of Gastronomy Tourism
Ramen in Japan is an excellent case study of how food reflects broader historical changes and development of national identity. Having grown out of the post-Second World War period, ramen is a representation of comfort as well as culinary advancement. Its global valuation is expected to exceed about US$1.8 billion in 2024, showcasing its influence on food culture around the world. This growth underscores the potential for cuisine to act not only as sustenance but as a means of storytelling and connection.
UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network has been codifying this principle by increasingly recognizing cities that cultivate food culture. Instead they identify it as a profound force for innovation and deepening community health. The network that would become their national network started back in 2004. Currently, it counts 57 cities with the title of UNESCO Cities of Gastronomy, such as Parma in Italy or Chengdu in China. Amidst Canada’s melting pot of culinary cultures, it’s no surprise our food tourism industry is booming. Yet, it still doesn’t have a seat at the table of the celebrated culinary cities.
The Drive for UNESCO Designation
Kelowna, British Columbia, has made the designation of UNESCO City of Gastronomy a central part of its economic diversification strategy. The city’s application is a testament of its efforts to promote an exciting food scene that focuses on the use of local ingredients and sustainable practices. Kelowna is well attuned to the deep link between gastronomy and community identity. The city wants culinary tourism to be part of the city’s larger economic development plan.
The Okanagan Valley is an excellent case study in using unique local cuisine to build regional charm. With its incredible agricultural tapestry, the valley is home to a booming food scene that draws the national attention of food-loving tourists and locals as well. Farm-to-table dining experiences allow visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s diverse culinary scene. Beyond just increasing equity and access, these practices help support local farmers and producers, further increasing sustainability.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
The global food tourism market is set to skyrocket to almost US$8 billion by 2033. It is projected to increase at a phenomenal pace of nearly 18% annually. This spike is a clear indication that today’s travelers are more eager than ever to focus on culinary travel experiences. They want to experience local cultures with their plates. For Canadian communities, this trend represents a real opportunity to capitalize on gastronomy as an invaluable economic development tool.
Historic Island-wide events such as the Fall Flavours Food and Drink Festival highlight the magic of food tourism. They heal divides, bolster community connections, and honor local history. These activities connect chefs, farmers, and fishers to each other. They support regional culinary talent and the movement to celebrate local produce and time-honored methods. These types of culinary efforts create an exciting gastronomic environment that appeals greatly to natives and tourists alike.