For the locals and visitors on Spain’s Costa Blanca, the winter season brings more than just a chill in the air - it also signals the start of the beloved Calçotada Festival. Celebrated annually with a variety of traditional foods and activities, the Calçotada Festival is an authentic way to experience the culture and customs of the Costa Blanca.
Every winter, the Calçotada festival begins with local restaurants preparing a feast of crunchy calçots. Calçots are scallions that have been cooked over an open flame until they become soft and sweet - a true delicacy of the region. The calçots are served with a unique sauce made from spicy tomato, garlic, and onion, and accompanied by cured sausages, grilled meats, and red and white wines.
Once the meal is ready, the locals gather around a large fire to enjoy the feast and share stories of the past. Music and dancing are also a big part of the celebration, with traditional instruments such as flutes, drums, and bagpipes playing in the background. After dinner, everyone comes together to share a glass of Catalan cava, a local sparkling wine, and toast to the future with a rousing rendition of “Viva El Calçotada!”.
The Calçotada Festival is a wonderful way to become immersed in the history and culture of the Costa Blanca. It is a time to come together and celebrate the local cuisine, music, and people. So come and join us during the winter season for a true taste of Costa Blanca! “Viva El Calçotada!”