If you find yourself in Estepona on Sunday, 8th June, 2025, prepare for a mouth-watering experience that will showcase the very best of Spanish tradition, community spirit, and culinary flair. The town will host its Charity Paella Contest in the beautiful setting of Parque El Calvario, and as a visitor, you’ll be in for an unforgettable afternoon.
From the moment you enter the park, you’ll be greeted by the irresistible aroma of simmering paella—saffron, smoky paprika, seafood, meat, and vegetables all bubbling away in giant pans tended to by local chefs and enthusiastic cooking teams. A total of 20 teams will compete, and they’ll each be cooking at least 50 portions, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to taste a wide variety of styles and flavours.
For just €5 a plate, you’ll be able to sample paellas from different teams while supporting a great cause. All proceeds will go to the Vera+Cruz Brotherhood, and a not-for-profit group will be running a bar to keep the drinks flowing—from refreshing beer to fruity sangria.
The contest will be as lively as it is delicious. Each team will bring their own cooking equipment, and while the organisers will provide rice, oil, and vegetables, the rest—including secret ingredients—will be up to the chefs. Expect passion, flair, and perhaps even a bit of friendly rivalry.
Judging will take place in the early afternoon, with awards announced at 5 pm. The top three teams will walk away with prizes of €1,000, €500, and €250 respectively, and even the remaining participants will receive €100 for taking part. But for visitors, the true reward will be the experience—mingling with locals, tasting authentic paella, and enjoying live entertainment in a festive and welcoming atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a vibrant slice of Andalucian life, this event will be a perfect way to spend your Sunday. Come hungry, bring your appetite for culture, and don’t forget your camera—this will be a day worth remembering.
