‹ Back

 

La Nucía Set to Become Gastronomic Hub with ‘II GastroWeekend’ Festival

 

La Nucia / 25 april 2026

 

The Costa Blanca town of La Nucía is preparing to host a major culinary showcase next month as it launches the second edition of its “GastroWeekend” festival, bringing together top chefs, local producers and food lovers from 9 to 12 May.

 

Held at the CEM Captivador venue, the four-day event is designed as an immersive gastronomic experience, combining haute cuisine, live entertainment and local food culture in a format that organisers say is fast becoming one of the standout food events in the Alicante province.

 

Three Distinct Culinary Experiences

The festival is structured around three main events, each offering a different perspective on Spain’s vibrant food scene.

 

The opening day, Saturday 9 May, features “Gastro Day”, where leading chefs from across the region will present an exclusive menu alongside live cooking demonstrations and interactive sessions. Participating restaurants include El Xato, as well as other acclaimed venues such as La Fava, Talaia and Plegat. Tickets for this experience are priced at €85.

 

On Sunday 10 May, the event opens up to a wider audience with the “Gastro Market”, a free-entry food fair showcasing more than 20 artisanal and innovative products. Visitors will be able to sample regional specialities while enjoying live music and DJ performances, creating a relaxed, festival-style atmosphere.

 

Michelin-Star Finale

The highlight of the weekend comes on Tuesday 12 May with the “Michelin Star and Repsol Sun Day”, bringing together seven of Spain’s most respected chefs. Collectively, they hold nine Michelin stars and 13 Repsol Suns, representing some of the country’s most top culinary institutions.

 

Restaurants involved include L'Escaleta, Riff and Maralba, among others. Each chef will contribute to an exclusive tasting menu designed to showcase innovation, technique and regional identity.

 

Growing Culinary Reputation

Organisers say the event reflects La Nucía’s ambition to position itself as a гастрономic destination, blending high-end cuisine with accessible, community-focused experiences.

 

Tickets can be purchased individually for each event, with a limited combined pass available for €205.

 

With a mix of fine dining, local produce and entertainment, GastroWeekend is expected to attract both residents and visitors, further strengthening the Costa Blanca’s reputation as a leading food tourism destination.