Martinique’s Culinary Festival Wins Global Tourism Award, Inspiring Travelers to Discover Caribbean Culture

Published on February 27, 2026

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The Martinique Tourism Authority has earned global recognition after receiving a Silver award at the prestigious Adrian Awards for its cultural tourism initiative, “Martinique Gourmande.” The program promotes Martinique’s culinary heritage and introduces international travelers to the island’s rich cultural traditions.

The award was presented during the 69th annual Adrian Awards ceremony on February 18, 2026, in New York City. The recognition highlights Martinique’s growing reputation as a leading culinary destination in the Caribbean and strengthens its appeal among global travelers.

Tourism officials view the award as an important milestone in showcasing Martinique’s culture through food-driven travel experiences.

Global Recognition for Travel Marketing Excellence

The Adrian Awards, organized by the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International, honor innovative campaigns in global travel and hospitality marketing. The program has recognized outstanding tourism initiatives for nearly seventy years.

The Martinique Gourmande project received the Silver award in the Special Event category. The recognition reflects the initiative’s success in building destination awareness and encouraging international travel through immersive cultural experiences.

Tourism representatives stated that the festival was created to build meaningful cultural connections between Martinique and Montréal using cuisine, music, and shared traditions. They noted that the global recognition demonstrates the effectiveness of experiential tourism in inspiring visitors.

The award also acknowledges the collaboration between tourism officials, chefs, restaurants, and cultural organizations that helped expand the initiative across Québec.

Bringing Martinique’s Flavors to International Travelers

Martinique Gourmande began as a culinary and cultural event designed to introduce North American audiences to the island’s traditions. Over time, the initiative has developed into a major tourism promotion platform.

The festival was originally launched in Montréal and has gradually expanded across Québec, attracting strong participation from restaurants and cultural partners.

The 2025 edition welcomed nearly 10,000 visitors to the Créole Market held at the Grand Quay of the Port of Montréal Pavilion. The market offered visitors an opportunity to experience Martinican food, crafts, and music in a lively waterfront setting.

The culinary program included more than 40 restaurants across Québec that offered special menus inspired by Martinique’s cuisine.

Four guest chefs traveled from Martinique to demonstrate traditional cooking methods and share authentic recipes with local audiences.

The main culinary event was hosted at the Belvédère du Centre des Sciences in Montréal’s historic Old Port district.

A signature mixology competition featured ten finalists presenting cocktails inspired by Martinique’s famous rum culture.

Interactive activities allowed visitors to experience Martinican dance traditions and cultural workshops designed for families and children.

Tourism officials reported strong engagement through attendance, media exposure, and partnerships, showing the festival’s impact beyond the event itself.

A Destination Defined by Culinary Culture

Martinique is widely recognized for its unique blend of French and Caribbean culture. The island offers travelers a distinctive experience shaped by history, cuisine, and natural beauty.

According to official information from the Martinique Tourism Authority, gastronomy is one of the island’s defining attractions. Local cuisine reflects African, European, and Caribbean influences that create distinctive flavors and cooking traditions.

Traditional dishes often include fresh seafood, tropical fruits, spices, and locally produced rum.

Culinary tourism has become an important part of Martinique’s visitor experience, attracting travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion.

Beyond food, visitors can explore rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and coastal villages that reflect the island’s diverse heritage.

Travelers are increasingly drawn to destinations that combine cultural discovery with leisure experiences, and Martinique offers both in a compact and accessible setting.

Culinary Tourism Driving Future Travel

Tourism officials believe that culinary festivals like Martinique Gourmande help introduce the destination to new audiences and inspire future visits.

By bringing Martinique’s culture to international cities, the initiative allows travelers to experience the island’s identity before planning a trip.

The award-winning campaign demonstrates how cultural storytelling can encourage tourism while strengthening international partnerships.

Martinique continues to position itself as a destination where visitors can experience authentic Caribbean traditions alongside refined French culinary influences.

For global travelers seeking meaningful cultural experiences, Martinique offers a unique opportunity to explore the Caribbean through cuisine, music, and heritage.

The success of Martinique Gourmande suggests that culinary tourism will remain a key part of the island’s international promotion strategy in the coming years.