This isn’t just another cook-off. The Dr. Ramón García Ocejo Paella Contest is the grand finale of Ensenada’s 25-day Fiestas de la Vendimia—and this year marks the 35th anniversary. On Sunday, August 17, 2025, Viña de Liceaga will once again welcome wine lovers, foodies, and anyone who appreciates a proper campestre party under 120-year-old oak trees (plus one majestic 500-year-old roble that’s basically a celebrity).
A Tradition Worth Savoring
Since the late 1980s, this event has honored the memory of Dr. Ramón García Ocejo, who championed Ensenada’s wine and culinary culture. Today, more than 90 paella teams will light their wood fires (gas is strictly forbidden) and serve their creations to the crowd. Meanwhile, 80 Baja wineries will pour more than 160 wine labels—a perfect match for a plate of smoky, saffron-infused goodness. Two live music stages will keep the energy high all afternoon.
#Lobster tails, shrimp, and scallops—this paella team isn’t here to play. A true showstopper at the 2025 Paella Contest
The Competition & Prizes
The judging is handled by the Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California (Spanish acronym: AGAPE – The “Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California”). Paellas are coded for anonymous tasting and scored on color, appearance, flavor, and texture.
Two categories take the spotlight:
- Quality: flavor, texture, and presentation.
- Visual Presentation: beauty and order of the cooking station.
Winners receive trophies, wine, paella pans, aprons, commemorative merch, and consumption vouchers worth around $14,000 MXN from sponsors like Afirme and La Canasta. And yes—tour packages are raffled among all attendees to close the day with a bang.
By the way, if you spot me near a good glass of Sauvignon Blanc, please come say hi. I’ll probably be there.
Family-Friendly (With a Few Rules)
Kids under 12 get in free, but no pets are allowed. The setting is pure countryside charm, with activities for children and plenty of shaded spots for adults to sip and chat.
Your Insider’s Guide to Enjoying the Paella Contest
Get There Early
Gates open at 12 PM, but parking and prime shady spots go fast. If you arrive late, you risk long lines and missing the first tastings.
Parking & Transportation
On-site parking is limited and fills up quickly. Therefore, consider ride-sharing with friends or using local transportation services. Many guests arrange drop-offs to avoid the parking scramble.
Dress for the Occasion
Comfortable shoes are a must—remember, you’ll be walking on dirt paths. A hat and sunglasses will help you handle the Baja summer sun, and a light jacket can be handy for the evening breeze. Additionally, some people treat this event like a Valle de Guadalupe-style fashion show—think wide-brimmed hats, cowboy boots, and crisp white linen.
Cash or Card?
Vendors may accept both, yet cash tends to be faster. Moreover, don’t forget your ticket includes all wine and paella tastings—no surprise charges for the essentials.
Plan Your Tastings
With 90+ paella teams and 160+ wines, you won’t try everything—but you can come close. Therefore, pace yourself, and don’t ignore the lesser-known wineries; they often have the hidden gems.
Stay for the Raffle
The prize drawings happen toward the end of the event. Consequently, many people miss out because they leave early. Stick around—you might just win that vacation.
Quick Facts
- Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
- Time: 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- Place: Viña de Liceaga, Ensenada, Baja California, MX
- Price: $1,450 MXN (kids under 12 free)
- No pets allowed
- Dress code: Comfortable, summer-friendly, or go full Valle chic
Thirty-five years, thousands of paellas, and countless wine pours later, the Paella Contest remains Ensenada’s tastiest tradition. Therefore, mark your calendar, gather your crew, and get ready for a day of wine, wood smoke, and friendly competition. Just remember—show up early, stay hydrated, and save room for seconds.
