What’s on this Weekend: Medieval Markets, Free Concerts & World Paella Day
Buen finde, Valencia! The city is gearing up for full fall festival mode, and this weekend has everything from medieval parades to flamenco, wine tastings, and, of course, paella.
Festivals & Medieval Markets
Down by the sea, Cabanyal is celebrating the feast of St. Peter the Fisherman with a medieval market set up along the beach promenade. Expect food, crafts, and plenty of atmosphere — and don’t miss the highlight: the Moros y Cristianos parade, which will bring Calle de la Reina to life on Saturday evening. You can find details on the Visit Valencia page or through the Ajuntament de València.
Meanwhile, over in Benimaclet, locals are also honoring their patron saint with another lively medieval market full of handicrafts, food, and music — see the event page for more.
Art & Design
Valencia is overflowing with creativity right now. The Valencia Design Fest continues with workshops and exhibitions at MuVIM and other venues. Russafa Escènica is transforming neighborhood spaces into stages with theater and dance. And next week, Abierto Valencia opens with free art walks in both Spanish and English — a great way to discover the city’s contemporary galleries.
Free Concerts
If you’re in the mood for music, you’ll be spoiled for choice. On Thursday, Congolese-Valencian artist Doudou Nganga debuts his new album at the SGAE Foundation. Friday is a double treat: folk duo Tarta Relena performs at L’Etno Museum, while Tres Tiempos brings a fresh mix of traditional and modern flamenco at Matisse Club. Over at the City of Arts and Sciences, Berklee’s Lago de Conciertos continues with student showcases of jazz, soul, R&B, and pop.
Classical fans have two free concerts to look forward to on Sunday: the Valencia Orchestra at Les Arts (tickets must be picked up in advance on Friday at Palau de la Música), and the L’Horta Musicians’ Union orchestra at La Rambleta.
Paella & Wine
For food lovers, Thursday night brings Proava’s “Night of Wine and Music” at Les Arts’ Umbracle, where €15 gets you four tasting glasses from local winemakers. And Saturday is World Paella Day, when chefs from around the world compete at the Marina. €5 gets you a plate of award-winning paella — a bargain for one of Valencia’s greatest traditions.
Stories & Literature
For something a little different, Club Hemingway is back with another English-language open mic storytelling night at Radio City on Thursday. Free entry, and always full of surprises.
Weekend Sports
Racing fans can head out to Cheste for the GT World Challenge qualifiers, while the Gumball 3000 supercars roll into town at Les Arts next week. Families might like to know that the Botanical Garden’s yoga sessions for kids (ages 3–12) with parents start in October, egistration opens on Monday.
Bonus
On Monday, Valencia celebrates European Mobility Week with free public transport all day — the perfect chance to explore the city without spending a cent.
Plenty to pick from, whatever your mood. If you’re looking for more options, check out the City Calendar. Enjoy the weekend!
