Paella masterclass and council building tour: Sant Jordi activities in Barcelona

This year’s Sant Jordi activities are expected to be historic: more book shops and flower sellers taking to the streets in a ‘literary superblock’ taking over the city center. 

Around 300 shops are expected to set up stalls on the streets of Barcelona, which could be record figures. 

To go along with the traditional activities that take place across Catalonia every April 23, the Barcelona City Council is organizing extra activities spread out across the week for citizens to enjoy. 

In the La Boquería market, located just off La Rambla, chef Isma Padros will offer a paella masterclass in English, teaching you how to cook one of the most iconic dishes from the Mediterranean coast. 

Padros will be teaching those interested how to make the Arròs Parellada, the traditional paella style from Barcelona. The masterclass will take place at 6 pm on Monday, April 25 – two days after the day of Sant Jordi – and will also include a stroll around the market stalls.

Of course, everyone taking part will be able to taste the rice dish once it’s finished! Places are limited, and to attend, you must first sign up here.

Isma Padros is a hugely experienced chef having learned his trade in restaurants such as El Droma and La Fonda Europa, and was head chef at La Vinya del Senyor and Els Jardinets de Gràcia, among others. He has also made various television appearances on cooking shows, such as ‘Cuina per solters’ and ‘La cuina de l’Isma’ on TV3, and ‘Hoy cocinas tú’ on La Sexta.

City council building tour

As well as the paella masterclass, Barcelona city council will also be opening its doors to its main building, situated in Plaça Sant Jaume in the heart of the city. 

The group Barcelona International Welcome will be offering a guided tour and networking session in the historic seat of the local council. 

Those attending will be gifted with a special bookmark, commemorating the day of books and roses, and the trip will also include a visit to the terrace of the iconic Novíssim building, featuring breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona. 

During the tour, there will be “theatrical explanations” given in Catalan, with supporting leaflets in English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian to allow as many people as possible to enjoy the day. 

The tour takes place at 11 am on the day of Sant Jordi, April 23, and places are also limited so must be reserved in advance. You can book your ticket here.