​​​​La Semaine du Goût

La Semaine du Goût, which translates into English as ‘the week of taste’, is a week dedicated to the celebration of food and gastronomy. It takes place in October each year, and is celebrated all across France. (Since 2011, it's also been celebrated in Japan.) Now in its 36th year, in 2025 it will take place from 13th to 19th October.

As you probably know, France takes its food very seriously. From the patisserie to the boulangerie, food is, like the spiral layers of a croissant, intertwined with French culture. But during the Semaine du Goût, it takes centre stage.

The aim of La Semaine du Goût is to educate children and adults alike about the importance of eating well, and about where our food ultimately comes from. The week is largely educational in nature, and as a result it is most commonly celebrated in schools, where special lessons, games and cooking demonstrations mark a departure from the usual lessons.

There are also public events that you can take part in, however. Below are a few of the events taking place:

• Les Cévennes, south-central France - each day of the week, participating restaurants in the Cévennes and Mont Lozère region will be offering unique menus in line with the theme 'Cuisiner le jardin-forêt' (cook the forest garden)
  
  
• Sainte‑Menehould, Marne - Local producers and artisans will be showcasing and selling special produce
  
  
• Manosque, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence - members of the public will get the chance to enrol in a series of 'ateliers du goût' ('taste workshops')

Sometimes the Semaine du Goût has a special theme. Themes for previous years have included 'Laissons‑nous surprendre !' ('Let us be surprised!'), which focused on how to subvert everyday expectations, and 'les 5 sens' (the five senses), which was all about paying attention to the way food looks, smells and feels and even sounds, not just how it tastes. The Semaine du Goût also has a unique 'godparent' each year, usually a renowned chef, farmer or other notable individual who is involved in the world of French gastronomy. The godparent acts as a kind of figurehead, helping to lead and promote events related to the Semaine du Goût. This year's godmother will be Tabata Mey, a Brazilian chef who has made incredible contributions to Lyon's culinary scene.

If you happen to find yourself in France during this year's Semaine du Goût, make sure to get involved!