Free public event kicks off Gastronomy Week on October 5
On Sunday, October 5, the first edition of Proef je Regio will take place at MECC Maastricht. This festival offers regional producers a stage to showcase their local products, while visitors can taste and discover what the region has to offer. In addition, the program features wine tastings and interactive cooking workshops. The event is part of De Week van Ons Eten (a nationwide initiative that raises awareness about healthy, sustainable, and local food) and emphasizes the value of regional products. Taste Your Region runs from 12:00 to 16:00 and is free for everyone to attend.
Regional products square at the heart of the festival
The Regional products square forms the core of the festival. Here, regional producers present their products, allowing visitors not only to taste but also to purchase directly. The Qookingtable will be used throughout the day, where regional producers prepare live dishes with local, seasonal ingredients. In this way, Proef je Regio connects seamlessly with De Week van Ons Eten. The festival thus emphasizes the value of regional products and the connection with the local community. LIOF, the regional development agency for Limburg, supports innovative entrepreneurs and also recognizes the importance of regional products. “For LIOF, strengthening the regional economy is essential. Regional products tell the story of the region: pure, sustainable, and close by. By creating a direct connection between producer and consumer, we make the value of local products both visible and tangible,” says Tamara Piatkiewitz-Weide, Business Developer at LIOF. During Proef je Regio, the Streekheld Award 2025 (an annual recognition for one outstanding regional producer or product, honoring exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and passion for the region) will also be presented. This incentive prize—sponsored by Rabobank and LIOF—is aimed at entrepreneurs who produce or sell regional products. The award is designed to strengthen both innovation and visibility of Limburg’s regional products, ensuring they reach consumers through retail and hospitality. Out of many entries, three finalists have been selected. One of them will receive the very first Streekheld Award, celebrating regional pride and the quality of local products.
A Gastronomic Week for Maastricht and the Region
Proef je Regio takes place during a week when Maastricht is fully dedicated to gastronomy. The festival is a free public event held in the run-up to the 70th edition of BBB Maastricht (October 6–8), the hospitality trade fair where professionals seek inspiration, discover trends, and network. On the opening day of BBB Maastricht, Monday, October 6, the MICHELIN stars will also be awarded. Once again, Maastricht provides the stage for culinary excellence. Proef je Regio thus fits seamlessly into the city’s and region’s broader gastronomic agenda.
Proef je Regio will take place on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at MECC Maastricht. The event is open from 12:00 to 16:00. Admission is free. More information can be found at www.proefjeregio.nl
