Gastronomic festivals announced for Calama and Patagonia

The city of Calama will host the tenth edition of Chef Norte 2026. Organized by INACAP Calama, the event aims to promote the culinary heritage of northern Chile through a gastronomic tournament involving students from Iquique, Antofagasta, Copiapó, and Calama. The competition will be judged by recognized professionals, including Sergio Armella, Miguel Parra, and Gabriel Vilches. The event will also feature culinary lectures and focus on desert-based ingredients and traditions.

In Argentina, the 21st National Festival of the Patagonian Chef has been scheduled for May 7–9, 2027, in Villa Pehuenia–Moquehue. The festival will bring together chefs, producers, and entrepreneurs from Patagonia and Chile to highlight indigenous ingredients such as araucaria pine nuts, trout, goat, lamb, red berries, and ñaco. The program includes masterclasses and spaces for the commercialization of regional products and crafts.