Saborea el Paraíso Sánchez to Highlight Culinary Tourism in Samaná

The Ministry of Tourism has announced the upcoming Saborea el Paraíso Sánchez food festival, scheduled for August 8 and 9 at the historic Railway Ruins of the Former Port of Sánchez in Samaná Province. The event is designed to strengthen the area’s reputation as one of the Dominican Republic’s emerging culinary tourism destinations.

This year’s festival will pay tribute to the Sánchez shrimp, a local seafood specialty recognized for its freshness and distinctive flavor. Its quality is closely linked to the ecosystem created where the Yuna River flows into Samaná Bay, an environment that has supported the municipality’s fishing tradition for generations.

Local Cuisine Takes Center Stage

Throughout the two-day celebration, visitors will be able to sample dishes prepared by local restaurants, traditional cooks, and food entrepreneurs, offering a broad showcase of the region’s culinary heritage. Organizers expect the festival to support local businesses while encouraging visitors to discover Sánchez through its seafood and traditional recipes.

A key attraction will be the Best Sánchez Shrimp Dish Competition, where chefs and community cooks will present both classic and innovative recipes featuring the municipality’s signature ingredient. The competition aims to highlight local culinary talent while celebrating one of the area’s best-known products.

Cultural Activities for Visitors

Beyond its gastronomic offerings, the festival will feature live music, artistic performances, folk traditions, and family-friendly recreational activities. These events are intended to showcase the cultural identity of Sánchez alongside its rich maritime heritage.

Part of a National Tourism Strategy

Saborea el Paraíso Sánchez is part of the Ministry of Tourism’s broader Saborea el Paraíso initiative, which promotes gastronomy as a way to diversify the Dominican Republic’s tourism offering.

Through this program, the ministry seeks to encourage both domestic and international visitors to experience the country’s traditions, history, and cultural heritage through local cuisine. By combining seafood, history, and cultural experiences, Sánchez aims to strengthen its position as a destination where visitors can enjoy an authentic taste of the Dominican Republic.