Saimaa was the European Region of Gastronomy 2024

The Saimaa region was 2024 awarded the prestigious international European Region of Gastronomy status in recognition of Eastern Finland's unique food culture. So last year we celebrated that nomination by inviting visitors to experience the purity and uniqueness of Finnish Lakeland with all their senses. We aimed to make the Saimaa region an internationally interesting destination, food and culture being at the center.

Last year was marked by various events that merge the cultural heritage, arts and food of the area in new, unprecedented way. The events were organised in close cross-provincial cooperation between South Savo, South Karelia and North Karelia involving numerous food, culture and art professionals and organisations.

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.