The Plaça de l’Aigua, located at La Marina de València, will be the main venue for the World Paella Day Cup 2026. Here, twelve chefs from various countries will present their unique interpretations of paella, incorporating ingredients, flavors, and techniques from their home regions.
Participating countries this year include Uruguay, Brazil, Romania, France, Mexico, Japan, Ecuador, Denmark, Bulgaria, Colombia, and the United Kingdom. During the competition, attendees will be able to observe the preparation process of each paella and learn about the participants' culinary proposals. A specialized jury will decide the winner of the World Paella Day Cup 2026.
The 2026 edition is based on the idea that «When something becomes a legend, it is reinterpreted worldwide,» reflecting the significant international presence paella has achieved. The event avoids debates about specific recipes or versions, focusing instead on how a dish tied to one territory has found new expressions globally.
The World Paella Day also emphasizes the intrinsic connection of paella with València, l'Albufera, and the surrounding huerta (orchards). Rice, fire, and the act of sharing food are integral to the narrative of a recipe that now transcends its birthplace.
“"Paella was born in València, linked to our territory, our rice, and our way of sharing around the fire. But when a work or a recipe becomes a legend, it transcends borders, and everyone wants to reinterpret it. World Paella Day is the moment when all these international perspectives return to their origin to celebrate together the greatness of our most universal dish."
The program at La Marina will include live cooking demonstrations, as well as musical performances and DJ sets after the awards ceremony. The aim is for the public to enjoy the day beyond the competition, with the opportunity to taste paella portions for €6 from partners such as El Paeller, Original Paella, and Portolito.
The celebration can also be followed via live streaming on the official World Paella Day YouTube channel, as well as on social media @worldpaelladay on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Thus, on September 20th, València will once again become the global meeting point for a recipe born alongside rice and fire that, over time, has crossed borders and generated versions in kitchens worldwide.
