Pakistan’s biggest culinary celebration set to take place on February 9-12, 2026
Pakistan International Culinary Championship (PICC) 2026, Season 8, is set to once again bring the world of gastronomy to Lahore with an exhilarating four-day celebration of culinary excellence. Organized by the Chefs Association of Pakistan (CAP) and strategically partnered with the College of Tourism & Hotel Management (COTHM), the event is proudly endorsed by Worldchefs, Paris, solidifying its status as one of the largest and most prestigious culinary championships in the region.Scheduled to take place from February 9 to 12, 2026 at the Royal Palm Golf & Country Club, Lahore, PICC 2026 will bring together thousands of participants, including professional chefs, culinary students, and industry experts from Pakistan and across the world. This international gathering serves as a platform for culinary exchange, creativity, and innovation, blending global talent with Pakistan’s rich culinary heritage.
Building on the success of previous editions, PICC 2026 will feature over 25 live operational kitchens where participants will showcase their skills in real time across diverse categories. The event will also host a vibrant baking lounge, spotlighting exceptional talent in pastry and bakery arts from around the world.
A continuing highlight of the championship will be the “Senses in the Kitchen” segment – an initiative that celebrates inclusivity in the culinary arts. In 2025, this segment featured visually impaired individuals and disabled chefs, who amazed audiences with their passion and creativity. PICC 2026 will expand this segment further, continuing to break barriers and highlight the limitless potential of the human spirit in the kitchen.
Adding to the global atmosphere, a Nations Parade will be held on each day of the event, with participating countries proudly represented through their national flags. This vibrant procession has become one of the most exciting daily highlights, reflecting the spirit of unity and cultural exchange.
Throughout the four days, PICC 2026 will host competitions, workshops, and master classes conducted by local and international experts. These sessions will give professional chefs and culinary students opportunities to refine their skills, share knowledge, and engage with new culinary trends and innovations.
The championship will conclude with a prestigious awards ceremony, where cash prizes, medals, and certificates will be awarded to the winners across various categories. Significant cash prizes will be distributed among the top performers, along with recognition for runners-up and emerging talent.
With the continued support of its valued partners, including leading food brands and hospitality industry players, PICC 2026 promises to be a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and excellence in Pakistan’s growing culinary landscape.
Ahmad Shafiq, President of the Chefs Association of Pakistan, has shared his thoughts ahead of the event.
“Each year, PICC raises the bar for culinary excellence and inclusivity in Pakistan. PICC 2026 will not only celebrate global talent but also inspire the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals. We are proud of the journey so far and excited to welcome the world once again to Pakistan for this landmark event.”
To learn more about the event, download the Concept Note.
To view the official rulebook, click on the button below.
Venue: Canal Road, Lahore, Pakistan
Dates: 9th February to 12th February 2026
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APPLY FOR A WORLDCHEFS ENDORSEMENT
Take your competition to the next level with Worldchefs competition endorsement, a prestigious recognition, achieved by competitions that meet the highest standards of quality. This endorsement provides exceptional opportunities for visibility to an audience of culinary professionals.
Benefits include:
- Tap into a global community of chefs for greater networking and business opportunities.
- Unlock new possibilities with optional digital badging and event competition software.
- Gain free of charge digital badges for competitors and winners with co-branding opportunities.
- Gain access to downloadable evaluation and scoring sheets on Worldchefs website.
Learn more and apply to endorse your competition: https://worldchefs.org/Endorsement/
