Lucknow has achieved a major global honour with its inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) as a Creative City of Gastronomy. The announcement was made on World Cities Day 2025 (October 30), placing the Uttar Pradesh capital among 58 new cities recognised this year for their cultural and creative strength.
This prestigious designation celebrates Lucknow’s rich culinary legacy—ranging from its royal Awadhi cuisine and aromatic kebabs to flavourful chaats and traditional desserts. Known as the City of Nawabs, Lucknow continues to charm the world with its timeless food culture and deep-rooted heritage.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay announced the new inductees, expanding the global network to 408 cities across more than 100 countries. The Permanent Delegation of India to UNESCO also called it a “proud moment for India,” highlighting the city’s global culinary recognition.
According to UNESCO, the newly added Creative Cities demonstrate how local creativity can support sustainable development, foster innovation, strengthen community bonds, and promote cultural pride. Established in 2004, the UCCN encourages collaboration among cities that use culture and creativity as engines for inclusive growth.
This year’s honourees span diverse categories, including Kisumu (Kenya) and New Orleans (USA) for Music, Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) for Design, Matosinhos (Portugal) and Cuenca (Ecuador) for Gastronomy, Giza (Egypt) for Film, Rovaniemi (Finland) for Architecture, Malang (Indonesia) for Media Arts, and Aberystwyth (UK) for Literature.
The newly selected cities will gather at the UCCN Annual Conference in 2026 in Essaouira, Morocco—another city recognised for its creative contributions.
Lucknow’s addition to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network marks a significant milestone for India, strengthening the country’s presence in global cultural discourse and celebrating the enduring culinary brilliance that defines this iconic city.
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