Karachi Eat Food Festival 2026: Why people were disappointed

Once the top food festival, this year's edition totally failed to match expectations

Karachi Eat once regarded as the city’s most exciting food festival, came under sharp criticism this year. Despite months of hype, the experience fell short for many attendees.

From petty thefts and arguments to long walks across scattered sections, visitors shared their frustration. Food lovers felt let down, while those who came primarily for concerts enjoyed themselves. For many, the event felt more like a music festival than a food one.

Attendance on the first day appeared modest, but crowds surged on the second and third days. While congestion was high, facilities were not. Across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, most videos circulating about the festival carried a critical tone.

 

 

 

 

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Another major grievance was the venue itself. With very little grass in sight, the park turned into a dusty space once the crowds built up. The distances between sections were tiring, and many argued that a basic leisurely walk should have been possible but wasn’t.

Karachi Eat has long been known for inventive food, but this year the offerings proved disappointing. “We look forward to Karachi Eat every year, but this time nothing felt new,” one attendee told The Express Tribune. “It was the same corndogs, the same hot pots, and the same Creek Walk dishes. No new ideas, no innovation, everything was repetitive.”

Compared to previous editions, there were fewer food stalls. The more attractive ones were those serving loaded fries, creamy burgers, Lahore-style tawa chicken, or khausa, yet many visitors seemed more inclined to film content than to eat.

“We come every year with our family, but this time it was quite disappointing,” another visitor said. “No new items. Half the things are the same as Creek Walk. Variety just wasn’t the same.”
Prices also drew complaints. Portions were small and costs high, with many arguing the food was simply not worth the mark-up.

 

 

 

 

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If the food and logistics failed to impress, the concerts largely saved the festival. Performances by Asim Azhar, Havii, Hasan Raheem, Ashir Wajahat, and Samar Jaffri drew excitement, and amusement rides made their first appearance this year.

 

 

 

 

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But videos of fights and arguments also went viral, adding to the perception of weak security. There were too few seating options, long distances to cover, and a general lack of coordination leaving many to feel the festival required endurance rather than offering entertainment.

 

 

 

 

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Karachi Eat 2026 was not a complete flop, but it did fall short of the standards it once set. The festival still draws crowds and social media hype naturally, yet basics like organization, safety, affordability, and comfort were lacking. For some, dust, chaos and crowds have become part of the Karachi Eat experience. For others, it’s enough reason to think twice before returning next year.

Note: Despite multiple attempts to contact the Karachi Eat management for comment, they did not respond.