It’s that time of year again, with Qatar International Food Festival just around the corner – it will be held for five days from the 24th to the 28th March at MIA Park. Food will be sold with individual dishes at food stands ranging in price from QR 5 to QR 40 so you can choose food items that suit your budget.
In 2014 there was an estimated 120,000 visitors – expect this year to be even more busy. As always there will be many Food Zones including the International Zone which alone will have 31 food stands, and the Qatar-Turkey Zone celebrating the Year of Culture 2015.
Entry to QIFF 2015 is free. Certain activities, such as ‘Dinner in the Sky’, will have their own pricing packages. There will be free activities planned for the event so it is possible to enjoy a fun-filled family day out.
Here are our top 5 activities that are free to all visitors at QIFF 2015!
Qatar Airways Cooking Theatre:
There will be a live cooking theatre with seating for 100 guests. Those visiting the festival will be able to meet their favourite international chefs and watch them cook gourmet dishes and regional cuisine. Watch food demonstrations from Chefs Vineet Bhatia, Aisha Al Tamimi, Afif Baran Yucel and many more. Fatafeat Chefs Daad Abu jabber and Salma Soliman are also expected. There will also be samples at the end of each demonstration for people to try. Don’t forget to come prepared with any questions you may have for the Chefs!
Price: FREE!
Entertainment at the Stage Zone:
Courtesy of the hard work of Qatar Tourism Authority there will be a planned schedule of entertainment on the main stage at QIFF 2015. Last year, the highlights included regional dancers and pizza-throwing-acrobats. This year expect many more acts including the Aran and Oud Shows, drummers, break dancers and a chef orchestra.
Price: FREE!
Amateur Chef Competition:
For those of you who reckon you are a good cook then keep your eyes peeled for the amateur BBQ chef competition. Open to adults aged 18 years and over, it has been sponsored by Phillips ME (so expect some amazing culinary prizes too!). The registration details and timings are yet to be announced, but it is expected to be free to enter as a participant. However, it is anticipated that the activity will be timed so make sure you practice beforehand!
Price: FREE!
Organised by Qatar Culinary Professionals Association the activity is planned for Thursday 26th March 26 from 7pm onwards. Watch live as local chefs transform hard blocks of ice through delicate craftsmanship into artistic creations.
Price: FREE!
Daily Fireworks:
QIFF 2015 will be the first time that firework shows will be held for the duration of the festival, with shows planned at 8.30pm every evening. With MIA Park’s perfect location the fireworks should be visible from all across the Corniche.
Price: FREE!
For those of you who are really excited about the food festival check out QIFF 2015: ‘A Different Side of Food’ for more information on the other planned activities.
