PALADEA Fuerteventura 2025: A Culinary and Sporting Celebration in La Oliva

On Thursday, May 8, 2025, the municipality of La Oliva will kick off a new edition of PALADEA Fuerteventura, transforming Villaverde into the island’s hub for gastronomy, sports, and entertainment. Running until Sunday, May 11, this vibrant festival aims to showcase the richness of local products under the motto “Products from our land that are meant to be eaten.”

A Rich Tapestry of Activities

PALADEA boasts a diverse program that intertwines the creation and tasting of local delicacies with live performances and high-level sports competitions. Each day is packed with activities that cater to different interests and ages. From mountain biking on Sunday to hiking and trail running on Saturday, there’s something for everyone.

Organized by the Town Hall of La Oliva with contributions from the Sports Council, Club Deportivo Caima, the Fuerteventura Cabildo, Promotur of the Government of the Canary Islands, and the Tourism Board, this event has firmly established itself in the island’s cultural calendar.

Sporting Events Amid Stunning Landscapes

Central to the PALADEA experience is its focus on sports, highlighting the breathtaking landscapes of Fuerteventura. Participants can look forward to a thrilling 32-kilometer trail run and a 10-kilometer hiking route on Saturday, followed by a challenging 44-kilometer mountain bike race on Sunday.

Dorsal collection for participants occurs on Friday, May 10, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Saturday morning for hiking events. Mountain bike riders can also pick up their race numbers on Friday and Sunday.

Adding extra excitement to the program, there will be two parkour exhibitions led by DJ Sampedro, scheduled for Friday evening and Saturday afternoon.

Culinary Delights: A Gourmet’s Paradise

The gastronomic offerings at PALADEA are a significant highlight. Notable chefs including Alberto Marín, Ángel Lirio, and Michelin-starred Víctor Suárez will present live cooking demonstrations throughout the weekend. These sessions will not only tantalize taste buds but will also be accessible to all, with sign language interpretation provided for several show cooking sessions.

In addition to cooking demonstrations, festival-goers can participate in a varied array of competitions, including a mojo picón contest and a recipe challenge, both of which promise to engage local and visiting food enthusiasts alike. The popular tapas contest will award prizes such as Gold, Silver, and Bronze Tapas, along with the public choice award.

Wine lovers can indulge in tastings from local wineries, including Tindama from La Oliva and Arautaba from Tenerife, along with beer tastings from Victoria. For those keen to learn, masterclasses on gin tonics and cava will be offered, ensuring ample opportunities to expand one’s culinary horizons.

The Artisan Market: Local Products and Festive Atmosphere

Alongside the rich culinary experiences, the artisan market “La Plaza” will open its doors on Saturday, offering a selection of local products and signature gastronomy. Live music, children’s activities, and a festive ambiance will contribute to a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the event.

Various artists and groups will grace the stage, including performances from Los Lolas and tributes to famous bands like Sabina and Queen. These artistic engagements are designed to create a lively, immersive experience that reflects the cultural richness of Fuerteventura.

The Mayor of La Oliva, Isaí Blanco, has underscored the importance of PALADEA as a key event not only for the island but also within the broader province of Las Palmas. This sentiment was echoed by Lola García, the Cabildo president, who emphasized the significance of supporting events that bridge sports, local products, and culture.

PALADEA 2025 Schedule at a Glance

The festivities span over several days, featuring a packed itinerary:

May 8

• 19:00 – Show Cooking with Yareli Pérez Vera
• 21:00 – Performance by Laly Lean

May 9

• 10:00 – Seniors’ Meeting
• 16:00 – Show Cooking with Vincenzo di Costanzo
• 20:00 – Tribute to Joaquín Sabina by 500 Noches

May 10

• 10:00 – Trail Run and Hiking Event
• 11:00 – Mojo Contest
• 20:00 – Remember Queen Tribute

May 11

• 10:00 – Mountain Bike Race
• 11:00 – Recipe Contest
• 14:30 – Awards for Mountain Bike Participants

As the days unfold, La Oliva will come alive with the energies of sport, flavor, and community spirit. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, PALADEA Fuerteventura promises an unforgettable experience filled with unique flavors, thrilling sports, and rich cultural exchanges.