In the heart of Huánuco, from August 29 to 31, 2025, the vibrant energy of the National Cheese Festival, or Queso Fest, permeated the air. Thousands of attendees gathered to celebrate cheese in all its forms and flavors, a staple deeply rooted in Latin American culture. This year’s event was made especially significant by the presence of renowned Spanish cheese expert Luisa Villegas Domínguez, who delivered an enlightening speech on the future of cheese in global nutrition.
As attendees roamed the festival grounds, the tantalizing aromas of assorted cheeses wafted through the air, enticing festival-goers. Stalls and booths showcased an impressive variety of regional cheeses—from creamy Andean melts to robust artisanal varieties crafted by local producers. Conversations thrived amidst tastings, as people sampled different varieties, each bite an exploration of tradition, innovation, and community.
Villegas spoke passionately about cheese’s potential role in addressing future food security challenges. With a global population projected to reach beyond 9 billion by 2050, she emphasized that cheese could offer sustainable nutrition, thanks to its high protein content and versatility in meal preparation. “Cheese not only connects us to our cultural roots but also serves as a vehicle for sustainable practices in agriculture and nutrition,” she said, engaging the crowd with her vision of a cheese-centric future.
Beyond cheese tastings, the Queso Fest included interactive workshops and cooking demonstrations that showcased the versatility of cheese in dishes from various Latin American cuisines. Chefs demonstrated how to integrate cheese into everything from classic empanadas to gourmet vegan dishes, inspiring attendees with creative ideas and flavorful recipes.
As the sun set over the festival, music filled the air. Folk bands played traditional Latin rhythms while dancers in colorful costumes twirled in synchronization, celebrating the richness of Latin culture with every note. Families laughed and enjoyed their newfound cheese favorites while children played, aware that they were a part of something much larger—a cultural renaissance celebrating food, sustainability, and community.
Queso Fest 2025 succeeded in uniting diverse tastes and traditions, reminding all who attended of the profound impact food can have in connecting us to each other and the planet. As people departed the festival, they carried not just a variety of cheeses but also a deeper appreciation for the culture behind one of the world’s favorite foods.
