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June 19-20 GastroLata, Spain's first gourmet canned food festival, comes to Molina de Segura
Free entry, 15 exhibitions, live cooking demonstrations and evening music make this a weekend worth clearing your diary for
If your idea of canned food is still something you reach for when there is nothing else in the cupboard, this weekend might just change your mind. Spain's first urban festival dedicated entirely to gourmet preserved foods is taking place in Molina de Segura this Friday June 19 and Saturday June 20, and the line-up is genuinely impressive.The event is called GastroLata, and the setting could not be more fitting. Molina de Segura has deep roots in the canning industry, with seven industrial chimneys still standing as a reminder of when the city was one of Spain's great canning powerhouses. Brands like Pelícano, La Molinera and La Huertana defined both the local economy and its identity for generations. This weekend, that heritage comes back to life in the most enjoyable way possible.
Fifteen exhibitors from across Spain will be on hand over the two days, offering tastings, workshops and cooking demonstrations by specialist chefs. There is also a competition for the best tapa made using premium canned goods, which should be worth watching. Entry to the whole event is free.
One of the chefs taking part is Samuel Ruiz from Colmado San Julián and Bar Verónicas, two well-known Murcian spots with a reputation for quality preserved foods. "We are thrilled to participate in an event that perfectly aligns with our philosophy," he said. "We want to showcase all the gastronomic possibilities that canned goods offer through different preparations and bring this world closer to the public in an attractive and surprising way."
Alongside the food there is also an exhibition tracing the evolution of the canning industry in Molina de Segura, organised in partnership with the Ayuntamiento, which gives the weekend a satisfying sense of local history and pride.
And when the evening comes, the festival keeps going. Friday night features El Relente with their flamenco and flamenco rock sound, while Saturday wraps up with a salsa and bachata party. Wine and craft beer pairings are available throughout, with Estrella de Levante as the main sponsor.
If it all goes to plan, GastroLata is set to expand to four other Spanish cities in 2027. But Molina de Segura gets to say it was first.
Image: gastrolata.com
