Chiang Mai International Food Festival (CMIFF) wowed Jan 17-18, 2026, at Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center (10AM-10PM), where people were gathering in the crowds under the theme of “Glocalization: Bringing the World to the Plate”, which blends the Lanna roots with world fusion. 150+ Glocal Food Market stalls showcased ethnic Thai, Hmong herbal chicken, Tai Yuan papaya salads, Karen curries, and Michelin-starred Chef Paulo Airaudo demonstrations. Lanna ceremonies, folk dances, jazz, and cooking workshops celebrated 12 ethnic cuisines. Free entry, 50K+ people enjoyed sustainable sourcing talks – trending for cultural immersion post-event reels.
Glocal Food Market
- 150 stalls Lanna-global fusion: Khanom Wong sweets, makhaen sour soups ฿50-200.
- Ethnic villages Hmong herbs, Pgakenyau grilled fish live demos.
- Sustainability focuses on local ingredients and international twists.
- Jazz club pairings Hai Ya Garden vibes.
Ethnic Cooking Demos
- Ban Bo Kaeo Hmong: 12 herbs, boiled chicken, ritual spices.
- Ban Huai Muang Tai Yuan: Papaya flower salad, fresh foraged greens.
- Luang Nuea Khanom Wong sticky treats; Paulo Airaudo Belén fusion.
- Free tastings workshops hands-on cultural exchange.
Cultural Performances
- Main stage Fon Phleng Sor Lanna dance opening; guardian spirits blessings.
- Ethnic pavilions folklórico storytelling food origins.
- Food Forum chefs/narratives glocalization future.
FAQs
Event dates location?
Jan 17-18 10AM-10PM Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center Hai Ya; free entry BTS nearby Grab ฿100.
Tickets costs entry?
Free main festival; Food Week Jan 12-16 pre-events some workshops ฿200-500 Line book.
Ethnic foods featured?
Hmong, Tai Yuan, Karen, Lua—herbal soups salads curries live demos tastings origins stories.
Family kid-friendly?
Yes cultural shows dances markets; shaded seating kid workshops non-spicy options available.
Parking transport tips?
Limited onsite; songthaew Cultural Center, Grab/Uber surge weekends arrive early.
