Contribution of Municipalities to Local Gastronomy Initiatives Through a Community-Based Tourism Approach: The Case of Kütahya Municipality

This study aims to examine the contribution of municipalities to local gastronomy initiatives within the framework of a community-based tourism approach, using the example of Ktahya Municipality.The research aims to reveal the effects of local governments' gastronomy-based activities on community participation, local development, and the preservation of cultural heritage.The interview technique, a qualitative research method, was used as the data collection tool.Interviews conducted with managers working at Ktahya Municipality, representatives of the gastronomy unit, members of women's cooperatives, and local gastronomy entrepreneurs were evaluated using descriptive analysis.The findings reveal that the municipality supports local gastronomy initiatives through gastronomy festivals, panels, cooperative support, and promotional activities; these practices ensure that the local community is involved in the process as producers, decision-makers, and stakeholders.Additionally, it was determined that gastronomy-based events increase the visibility of local products, generate economic benefits, and strengthen social interaction.In conclusion, the example of Ktahya Municipality demonstrates that local governments can effectively utilize gastronomy as a development tool in line with a communitybased tourism approach.This study is expected to contribute to the literature on gastronomyfocused community-based tourism practices by local governments and provide guiding insights for practitioners.