Cous cous festival in Sicily includes first-time participant, the Philippines

 SAN VITO LO CAPO, Sicily - The Cous Cous Fest, the International Festival of Cultural Integration, returns to San Vito Lo Capo for its 28th edition, running from Sept. 19 to 28. Set in the stunning coastal town in Sicily, the festival celebrates cous cous as a symbol of peace and cultural exchange, offering ten days of culinary competitions, tastings, concerts, and cultural experiences.

 This year’s theme, “Meet, Feel, Love,” invites people from around the world to gather, share emotions, and celebrate diversity. Organized by Feedback, in partnership with the Municipality of San Vito Lo Capo, the event transforms the town into a lively open-air stage of flavours, sounds, and traditions.

 At the heart of the event is the Bia Cous Cous World Championship, with chefs from eight countries, including first-time participant the Philippines, competing in an international cook-off. Representing Italy is local chef Angela Abrignani, alongside teams from Morocco, Spain, Tunisia, Peru, Portugal, and a special squad from Médecins Sans Frontières.

 The Italian Cous Cous Championship (Sept. 19–20), presented by Conad, will see four chefs competing for a spot on the national team. A student contest also brings young talents from hospitality schools across Italy.

 Free beachfront concerts light up the nights with artists like Raf, Fedez, Serena Brancale, and Gemelli Diversi, plus DJ sets and comedy acts, all held on San Vito's award-winning beach.

 Piazza Santuario hosts cooking shows, wine tastings, and cultural talks with celebrity chefs like Giorgione, Andrea Lo Cicero, and Fabrizio Nonis, while the Cous Cous Houses offer over 20 recipes from Sicilian to international and vegetarian variations, served daily from noon to midnight.

 Strolling through the Expo Village, visitors can explore a colourful Mediterranean marketplace featuring local crafts, food products, and artisan creations, an immersive journey through the senses.

 More than just a food festival, Cous Cous Fest is a celebration of peace, hospitality, and global community, right on one of Italy’s most beautiful beaches.

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