EVENTS

Penangites celebrate a vibrant calendar of festivals all year round, spanning religious, cultural and contemporary arts events nearly every month.Visitors can witness acrobatic lion dances during Chinese New Year, the intricate weaving of ketupat (rice dumplings) during Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the awe-inspiring body piercings borne by devotees during the Hindu festival of Thaipusam and the remarkable feats of balance showcased during the Penang Chingay Parade. Beyond these deep-rooted traditions, home-grown arts festivals continue to draw global audiences, led by the highly anticipated George Town Festival and the internationally acclaimed George Town Literary Festival. Other landmark annual happenings not to be missed include the George Town Heritage Celebrations, the historic Feast of St. Anne in Bukit Mertajam,as well as major events like the Penang International Food Festival, the Penang International Dragon Boat Festival and the world-class Penang Bridge International Marathon.

Battle Of The Chefs 2026

The 20th edition of the Battle of the Chefs (BOTC) 2026 is set to be the largest edition in the competition’s history, bringing together more than 2,000 competitors and over 100 certified culinary judges from around the world at the SPICE Arena in Penang.

As a Worldchefs-endorsed continental-level competition, BOTC 2026 will feature more than 90 competition classes across Young Chefs and Master Chefs categories, providing a global stage for both emerging talent and experienced culinary professionals to demonstrate their skills, creativity and technical excellence.

Visitors can expect an action-packed culinary showcase, with chefs competing across a wide range of disciplines, complemented by industry exhibitions, culinary demonstrations and opportunities to engage with professionals and leading brands from the food and hospitality sectors.

More than a competition, BOTC 2026 will celebrate the evolution of the culinary profession and nearly four decades of the event’s history in Penang. The milestone edition will bring together chefs, industry professionals, students, businesses and food enthusiasts, reinforcing Penang’s position as an important regional destination for culinary talent and gastronomy.

With a bigger competition platform, greater international participation and increased prize money, the 20th Battle of the Chefs 2026 promises four days of competition, learning, networking and culinary excellence.

Event Organiser: Penang Chefs Association of Malaysia

Website
https://www.facebook.com/BOTCPenang

Address
Setia SPICE Arena, Penang