The 70th edition of BBB Maastricht kicked off today with a record-breaking opening: with a 1,057-kilogram apricot pie (abrikozenvlaai), the organizers broke the official Guinness World Record.

The 2025 Dutch MICHELIN star awards ceremony took place simultaneously. Furthermore, the organizers confirmed that the opening day’s visitor record was easily surpassed. BBB Maastricht can be visited until Wednesday, October 8th, at MECC Maastricht.

World record pie officially recognized
During the opening ceremony, an apricot pie weighing 1,057 kilograms was presented, officially confirmed by Guinness World Records representative Seyda Subasi-Gemici. The record attempt was initiated by the fair organizers and baker Sébastien Trudelle (Patisserie Smores) .

The fair was founded 70 years ago as a bread and pastry fair . Therefore, for this anniversary, the Limburgse Vlaai (Limburg Pie) was initiated as a crowd-puller.

Among other things, 350 kg of flour, 600 eggs, 300 kg of sugar and 530 kg of apricots were used for its preparation.“We’re all incredibly proud that we succeeded. It was a challenge where precision was crucial,” says Trudelle.

After the official recognition, the pie was cut and shared with visitors to the fair.

MICHELIN awards ceremony on opening day

The 2025 MICHELIN Awards also took place during the opening day of BBB Maastricht. The ceremony brought together chefs, restaurateurs, and other gastronomic representatives from the Netherlands and Belgium. MICHELIN’s presence underscored BBB Maastricht’s role as an important platform for culinary professionals in the Netherlands.

Record attendance at the start of the anniversary edition
The first day of the fair attracted a surprisingly large number of visitors. Visitors from the Netherlands and Belgium attended tastings, demonstrations, and networking sessions.“It’s remarkable to see how many professionals have found their way to Maastricht,” says Silvie Slachter , trade fair manager of BBB Maastricht. “The high turnout contributes to the festive atmosphere that befits this anniversary edition.”Various activities will take place during the fair, including cooking demonstrations, masterclasses, innovation sessions and networking events. 

About BBB Maastricht
Since 1955, thousands of hospitality professionals have visited the BBB Maastricht hospitality trade fair every October to sample, network, and be inspired. The trade fair creates “More Hospitality Success” for both visitors and exhibitors by promoting meaningful encounters, sharing expertise, and keeping abreast of new developments.

BBB Maastricht takes place from Monday, October 6th, to Wednesday, October 8th 2025, at MECC Maastricht. Visitors can register for free via the website: www.bbbmaastricht.nl .

Text provided in Dutch by BBB Maastricht

Photos provided by BBB Maastricht