Calpe’s famous prawns steal the show at Alicante’s food festival

Calpe put its local produce and culinary traditions in the spotlight over the weekend as the town took part in Alicante Gastronómica 2026.

The four-day food festival, which ran until Monday, October 5, brought together flavours from across the province, with Calpe showcasing its seafood, traditional dishes and locally produced specialities.

The municipality returned with its own stand, which was larger than last year’s, allowing it to offer a packed programme of tastings and promotional activities throughout the event.

Calpe’s famous white prawns take centre stage

One of the biggest attractions was the town’s prized Gamba Blanca de Calpe.

The local Fishermen’s Guild prepared the sought-after prawns in several different ways, giving visitors the chance to sample them boiled, served in fideuà and fried in cones.

The seafood was accompanied by white wine from Bodegas Casanova, highlighting the combination of local produce that forms an important part of Calpe’s culinary identity.

Visitors could also sample local cured meats, different varieties of coca, wine and mistela during the festival.

Local restaurants showcase their skills

Calpe’s restaurant scene also featured prominently, with two local establishments taking part in showcooking sessions at the ‘Saborea Costa Blanca’ area.

Casa Cantares and Bambero presented their culinary creations, giving festival visitors an insight into the ingredients, techniques and flavours behind Calpe’s gastronomy.

The demonstrations formed part of the municipality’s wider programme to promote its food culture and highlight the connection between the town’s fishing heritage and its local cuisine.

Free buses offered from Calpe

For the first time, Calpe also organised free coach trips allowing residents to travel to the food festival.

Two buses ran from Calpe to Alicante Gastronómica on Saturday, October 3 and Sunday, October 4, with 110 places available across the two days.

The coaches departed from Calpe bus station at 9.30am before returning from the IFA Alicante venue at 6pm.

The initiative gave residents an easy way to experience the festival while supporting Calpe’s presence at one of the province’s biggest gastronomic events.

Through its stand, tastings and live cooking demonstrations, Calpe used Alicante Gastronómica to put its local produce firmly in the spotlight, with its famous white prawns among the star attractions.