National Spanish Paella Day

Celebrated on 03/27/2026

Quick Fact

National Spanish Paella Day is celebrated on March 27 each year, a date chosen to honor the birth of Spanish chef and paella expert Juan José Cebrián. The holiday was created in 2018 by the Spanish food company 'Arroz SOS' to promote the cultural and culinary significance of paella. Interestingly, paella was originally a peasant dish cooked over open fires in the fields of Valencia.

Origins and Establishment of National Spanish Paella Day

National Spanish Paella Day was established in 2018 by the Spanish rice company Arroz SOS, in collaboration with the Valencian gastronomic community. The date of March 27 was chosen to commemorate the birth of Juan José Cebrián, a renowned chef and paella expert who dedicated his life to perfecting and promoting the dish. The holiday was officially recognized by the Spanish government as a way to celebrate one of Spain's most iconic culinary exports and to encourage the preservation of traditional paella-making techniques.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Spanish Paella Day has grown from a local celebration in Valencia to a global event, with restaurants, food bloggers, and home cooks around the world participating. In Spain, the day is marked by special paella-making competitions, tastings, and cultural events. Many restaurants offer discounted or special paella menus, and cooking classes are organized to teach the authentic method of preparing paella Valenciana. Social media campaigns using hashtags like #NationalPaellaDay help spread awareness and share paella recipes globally.

Facts & General Observations

• Over 200 million servings of paella are consumed worldwide each year, with Spain accounting for approximately 40% of that total.
• The largest paella ever made was in 2001 in Valencia, weighing 2,000 kg and serving over 6,000 people.
• Authentic paella Valenciana traditionally contains rabbit, chicken, and snails, but seafood paella (paella de marisco) is the most popular variation internationally.

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