Ribalta Park in Castellón will become the gastronomic epicenter of the Valencian Community on April 20, as it hosts the regional semifinal of the International Valencian Paella Contest of Sueca. This qualifying phase, celebrating its 65th edition, will bring together 40 restaurants selected from 63 applicants, as announced on April 7 during the official presentation at the Tourism Center (CDT).
From this semifinal, only 12 establishments will secure their pass to the grand international final, scheduled for September 13 in Sueca. This event is considered one of the most significant culinary gatherings centered around Valencian paella, an emblematic dish of local gastronomy.
The Councilor for Tourism, Arantxa Miralles, emphasized the importance of this semifinal for Castellón, as it positions the city within the international circuit of the competition and enhances its image as a gastronomic destination. According to Miralles, participation in such events is crucial for the external promotion of the city and for spreading awareness of Valencian paella as an essential part of culinary heritage.
“"The celebration of this semifinal places Castellón within the international circuit of the competition and strengthens its projection as a gastronomic destination."
As a pre-semifinal activity, a showcooking open to the public will be organized on April 19 in María Agustina Square. This event will include tastings and live preparation of Valencian paella, offering a unique opportunity for cooking enthusiasts.
The International Valencian Paella Contest of Sueca is one of the oldest gastronomic competitions in Spain and has expanded its influence with qualifying phases nationally and internationally, including countries like Japan, as part of its global outreach strategy. Castellón is repeating as the host of the regional semifinal, solidifying its position as a key point in the qualifying circuit.
