The Rice Competition, organized by Amics dels Veterans i la Regalèssia, is consolidating itself as an unmissable event of the Sant Cugat Festival. This Sunday, June 28th, Can Volpelleres Avenue transformed into a giant open-air kitchen, where 4,500 attendees enjoyed 270 paellas.
The group Bom, formed by residents of Sant Cugat and people from Urgell, took home the first prize with a local rice dish featuring rabbit, cooked over an open flame with broth. Their spokesperson, Eduard Llop, expressed satisfaction with the victory in their first participation, promising to return next year.
“"We are very happy to participate, it's our first year here. We want to congratulate the organization, we had a great time."
The mayor of Sant Cugat, Josep Maria Vallès, highlighted the event's uniqueness within the Festival, emphasizing its family-friendly and participatory nature. He noted that the number of paellas has significantly increased in recent years, from 220 to 270 since 2024.
“"I always say that there is the Sant Cugat Festival and the Rice Competition, because it's a different kind of festival: for kids, for families... everyone comes to participate and have a good time."
This year's proceeds, amounting to 6,750 euros, will be entirely donated to Càritas Sant Cugat. Emili Marlés, priest of the Parish of Sant Pere d'Octavià, announced that a portion of the funds will go to those affected by the earthquakes in Venezuela, with an additional contribution of 5,000 euros.
The day concluded with a concert and the 'Ball de l'Arròs' (Rice Dance) performed by Emanems, providing the musical finale to an afternoon of collective celebration combining gastronomy, companionship, and solidarity.
