Nova Maldives places Maldivian flavours and ocean harvests at heart of festive programme
Nova Maldives has announced its 2026/27 festive programme, The Garden Within, a three-week celebration running from 19 December 2026 to 7 January 2027 that places gastronomy, wellness and sustainability at the centre of the guest experience.
For culinary professionals, the programme offers a diverse mix of dining concepts, cooking workshops and ocean-inspired menus that highlight both Maldivian traditions and international influences.
Ocean-inspired dining experiences
A key feature of the festive season is the resort’s focus on seafood and destination dining experiences under the theme Harvest from the Sea.
At Mizu, Nova’s overwater restaurant, guests will be able to choose between two specially curated menus. The daily Nova Sora Umi: Blooming Ocean experience draws inspiration from Japanese cuisine and the relationship between sky and sea, while the six-course Umi no Sachi: Bountiful Harvest of the Sea menu will be served on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, showcasing premium seafood through a multi-course dining journey.
Throughout the festive period, lighter offerings such as Dim Sum & Sushi selections will also be available, reflecting the resort’s emphasis on sharing and discovery through food.
Celebrating Maldivian culinary heritage
Nova is also placing local cuisine in the spotlight through its Truly Maldivian Flavours workshop at Soul Kitchen.
The hands-on culinary sessions will allow guests to explore traditional recipes and cooking techniques while learning about the ingredients and cultural influences that shape Maldivian gastronomy. For chefs and hospitality professionals, the initiative reflects a growing trend among resorts to create immersive culinary experiences that connect visitors with local food traditions.
The festive programme also incorporates the Grand Holhuashi, inspired by traditional Maldivian community gatherings where storytelling, music and crafts played an important role in daily life.
Private dining and destination experiences
For guests seeking more intimate dining experiences, Nova has developed a series of private culinary offerings.
Couples can enjoy a beachside dinner featuring grilled lobster and sparkling wine beneath the stars, while the resort’s Castaway Experience offers Prosecco and canapés on a secluded sandbank in South Ari Atoll.
These personalised dining concepts continue to be an important part of the Maldives hospitality sector, where location and atmosphere are increasingly integrated into food and beverage experiences.
Sustainability and connection to the ocean
The programme extends beyond the dining table through activities that connect guests with the marine environment that supplies many of the region’s ingredients.
Whale shark excursions, manta ray encounters, scuba diving experiences and reef clean-up initiatives form part of the festive calendar. Guests can also participate in the resort’s Coral Garden Sponsorship programme by planting coral frames alongside the marine team.
A holistic festive experience
Alongside its culinary offerings, Nova’s festive programme includes wellness activities at EsKape Spa, sound healing sessions, Ayurvedic treatments and creative workshops. Evening entertainment will feature live music, fire performances, tiki nights and cocktail gatherings leading up to New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Commenting on the programme, General Manager Abdulla Aboobakuru said The Garden Within reflects Nova’s focus on meaningful connection, wellbeing and shared experiences.
For food lovers and culinary professionals, however, the programme’s strongest appeal lies in its combination of Maldivian culinary traditions, Japanese-inspired dining, seafood-focused menus and interactive cooking experiences, creating a festive season where gastronomy remains at the heart of the celebration.
