A music competition is held near the food market in Taizhou. [Photo/Tide News]

Taizhou in East China's Zhejiang province launched its first Culinary Culture and Creativity Week at Xinhai Tiandi, the city's commercial hub, on July 16, bringing together culinary markets, music competitions, fashion shows, and art exhibitions for a six-day summer event.

On the first day, the Xinhai food market attracted many visitors with delicacies from Michelin-starred restaurants, restaurants recognized by the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide, and renowned local brands. The event also offered 14,000 consumption vouchers, providing discounts through online promotions and on-site activities.

Xu Aihua, owner of Mu Yun Hai, brought along signature specialties of their restaurant, including iced lobster, rice cake rolls, and grass jelly.

The finals of the 14th Taizhou Music Composition Competition and the 7th Original Pop Music Competition were also held near the food market. Innovative sections featuring intangible cultural heritage crafts, a music space, and pet products also drew significant attention.

"We have integrated 4 music performances, 6 fashion shows, the Yueju Opera The New Dragon Gate Inn, and 2 art exhibitions into the food market. Our goal is to create an all-hours, all-ages, multi-sensory cultural tourism experience through diverse settings and business formats," said Xie Qiaoyun, deputy director of the Taizhou Xinhai Commercial Operation Management.