“Proef je Regio” brings local flavours together on October 5
On Sunday, 5 October 2025, MECC Maastricht will host the first edition of the regional products festival Proef je Regio – A regional food festival showcasing local producers and seasonal flavours. A new and free public event that introduces visitors to the pure flavours and stories of local and regional Limburg producers. An initiative of hospitality trade fair BBB Maastricht in cooperation with Regionaal Voedselsysteem Limburg (RVS-LB). The festival makes the connection between farmer, plate and experience. Its aim is to let visitors experience the authentic taste of local products. Visitors can discover the local producers present and their products. Inspiration can be gained at cooking demonstrations, a wine tasting and various stage presentations. All dedicated to Limburg’s regional products.
The new festival Proef je Regio shows that regional products are tasty, honest and accessible to everyone. It proudly promotes the culinary heritage of South Limburg and its surroundings. From experienced foodies to lover of good food, the festival is worth a visit for everyone. Visitors can awaken their senses at the atmospheric regional products market, where around 25 producers from Limburg under the banner of Regionaal Voedselsysteem Limburg (RVS-LB) will present authentic products. You can also enjoy live cooking demonstrations with regional products or join a wine tasting provided by Stichting BOB Mergelland. Wines with a PDO quality mark guarantee 100% locally grown grapes and production in the same area. Proef je Regio seamlessly links up with regional initiatives such as Cittaslow and the Blue Zones, both of which have been embraced as regional ambitions in the field of a healthy lifestyle.
The festival takes place at Folie Culinaire, a part of the hospitality trade fair BBB Maastricht. Whereas on other days the fair is aimed exclusively at catering professionals, Folie Culinaire will open its doors to a wider public one day earlier on Sunday 5 October. This highlights BBB Maastricht’s commitment to raising awareness about local food. Visitors have the opportunity to personally meet the people and hear the stories behind products from their own region. Co-organiser Silvie Slachter – Exhibition Manager BBB Maastricht says: “We want to raise visitors’ awareness of the benefits of local products. It’s an accessible way to introduce residents of Limburg and the surrounding areas to the diversity of our beautiful province. Healthy enjoyment from your own region: that’s where it starts.”
Regional heroes on stage
Two award ceremonies will take place on the Streekheldenpodium during the festival. The LIOF Rabo Award for the most innovative regional product or producer recognises quality, craftsmanship and passion for the region. In addition, the title Gastronomic Ambassador is awarded to someone who commits to Dutch gastronomy in a special way. In 2024, this award went to Werner Loens, former MICHELIN inspector, in honour of his long-standing contribution to culinary quality.
Proef je Regio will take place on Sunday 5 October 2025 at MECC Maastricht. The event will be open from 12:00h to 16:00h. Admission is free. More information can be found on the website proefjeregio.nl.
Atmosphere impression Regional Products Festival – Gerlach Delissen Photography
Award ceremony Gastronomic Ambassador 2024 Werner Loens – Gerlach Delissen Photography
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