Things to do in Valencia this October also involve leaving the capital: Utiel, in the interior of the province, celebrates from October 16 to 18, 2026 the XXIX edition of the Utiel Gastronómica Fair, an event that turns the Paseo de la Alameda into a great showcase of local products, wines with Designation of Origin and activities for all ages.
What is Utiel Gastronómica and what can you do there?
The Utiel Gastronomic Fair returns with a new edition packed with activities, showcasing the aromas and flavors of the region. The program blends tasting booths featuring typical products, guided wine tastings, cooking demonstrations with local chefs, live music, and activities designed for families, all centered around wines from the Utiel-Requena Designation of Origin and traditional recipes such as morteruelo, ajoarriero, and the traditional pork dishes that typically accompany the town's gastronomic events.
When and where is it held?
The fair takes place from October 16th to 18th on the Paseo de la Alameda in Utiel, with continuous opening hours from 11:00 AM to midnight all three days. These extended hours allow visitors to plan their visit as either a morning outing or an evening excursion, combining the tasting stalls with the parallel program of tastings, cooking demonstrations, and music.
How much does it cost to go to the fair?
Access to the Paseo de la Alameda grounds is free: anyone can stroll among the exhibitors without paying an entrance fee. However, there is a cost for product and wine tastings, which in previous editions have been sold using a wristband or ticket system redeemable for several servings, a glass of wine, and a main course—a common practice at these types of food fairs in the Valencian Community. The exact price of the wristband for the 2026 edition will be confirmed by the Utiel Town Hall in the days leading up to the event.
How do you get to Utiel from Valencia?
Utiel is just over an hour's drive from the capital, via the A-3 towards Madrid, with a direct exit to the town center where the Paseo de la Alameda is located. For those who prefer not to drive, the town is connected by commuter train and intercity bus from Valencia, and in past editions of the fair, special round-trip buses have also been organized from the city, a practical option for those who want to attend without worrying about getting back after the tastings.
Why this gastronomic getaway is worth it
Beyond the excellent food and drink, the fair is a great excuse to explore Utiel, the main town of the Requena-Utiel region and the heart of one of the most important wine-producing areas in the Valencian Community. The area around the Paseo de la Alameda, with its historic buildings, is filled with a festive atmosphere for three days, and the combination of local produce, cooking demonstrations, and other activities makes a visit a perfect way to spend the day, whether with family or a group of friends.
What to take away from the visit
- Comfortable clothes for walking for hours among the stalls of the Paseo de la Alameda.
- A bag or cart if you plan to buy wine or local products to take home.
- Transport options: by car via the A-3 or by checking train and bus timetables in advance from Valencia.
More information
The images in the news story are for creative purposes only and do not reflect the reality of what is presented.
