World Paella Day Cup 2026 | The Global Battle for the Best Paella
About this event
Witness the world's top chefs master the fire at the 2026 World Paella Day Cup in the heart of La Marina de València.
Date: Sunday, 20 September 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: La Marina de València (Plaça de l’Aigua / Tinglado nº2)
Cost: FREE to watch. Tasting portions and drinks available for purchase on-site.
The Ultimate Culinary Showdown
Every year on 20 September, Valencia—the undisputed home of paella—celebrates World Paella Day by hosting the prestigious World Paella Day Cup. This isn't just a local cook-off; it is an international "Olympic-style" tournament where 12 world-class chefs from countries like Japan, Colombia, and France go head-to-head to prove who can master the art of the perfect rice.
What to Expect
- Live Cooking Spectacle: Watch the finalists battle it out in the open air from 10:00 AM, managing wood fires and precision ingredients. You can walk right up to the cooking stations at
- to see their secret techniques and unique twists.
- The Tasting Village: While the competition is free to watch, you can enjoy authentic portions from the tasting stands starting at 12:00 PM.
- Tickets: No advance booking is needed. Buy your tickets directly at the event stands on the day.
- Prices: Approximately €6 per serving and €2 for drinks.
- The Crowning: The contest is broadcast live on giant screens throughout the venue. Stay until 2:00 PM to see the jury—composed of Michelin-starred chefs—award the trophy to the 2026 World Champion.
How to Get There
The Marina is well-connected, but expect the area to be busy. We recommend using public transport:
- Metro/Tram: Take Line 8 (Marina de València station) or Lines 4 and 6 (Doctor Lluch station).
- Bus: Lines 92, 95, 19, 32, and 31 all stop within a short walk of the port.
- Valenbisi: Several bike stations are located around the Veles e Vents building and the port entrance.
Why Go?
It is the only day of the year where "paella" belongs to the world. Whether you're a foodie looking to snap photos of the most beautiful pans in the city or just want to soak up the high-energy festival vibes at the port, this is Valencia’s most iconic gastronomic event.
Pro-Tip: Arrive early! Tasting tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis and typically sell out fast by early afternoon.
