Christmas Gastronomy Market

In a move that combines the festive spirit with a strategic boost to the local market, the Municipality of Thessaloniki and the Tourism Department are organizing the “Christmas Gastronomy Market” on December 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., in the foyer of the City Hall.

This event forms part of the Municipality of Thessaloniki’s strategic plan for sustainable development and active support of primary production. Local producers from Thessaloniki will present fine seasonal products, creating a direct connection between producers and consumers while strengthening the sustainability of the local economy.

A central highlight of the “Christmas Gastronomy Market” is the announcement and official presentation of the new Chef Ambassadors of Thessaloniki, the city’s gastronomic representatives.

At 12:00 noon, the event will feature a live cooking show, aiming to map the cultural and gastronomic identity of the city. The new Ambassadors will showcase the full spectrum of Thessaloniki’s culinary character:
• Executive Chef Vasilis Mouratidis (Fine Dining), honoring his roots, will prepare a Pontian Pie.
• Chef Sofia Teftsi (Greek Cuisine / Seafood) will present a traditional Fish Soup.
• Chef Giannis Katsantonis (Meze Cuisine) will cook a Constantinopolitan Pastitsio.
• Pastry Chef Alexandros Alexiou will complete the menu with a crispy Mille-feuille.

The chefs will highlight the value of local, seasonal ingredients, presenting traditional recipes through a contemporary lens. This initiative aims to enhance Thessaloniki’s brand as the capital of flavor and promote the Mediterranean diet.

The festive atmosphere will be enriched musically at 11:30 a.m. with a performance by the Municipal Philharmonic Orchestra.

At the same time, the Municipality places emphasis on cultivating gastronomic education among younger generations through a festive gastronomy workshop for children, held from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., which includes:
• Hands-on activities about the value of local products, with the preparation of traditional sweets and basic cooking principles.
• Eco-awareness workshops focusing on proper food use and waste reduction, promoting responsible consumption and the circular economy.

For the young visitors, Santa Claus will be present for festive photos and will offer sweet treats, while his elf helpers will add a touch of magic with face painting.