Fiesta de San Francisco de Paula

Every April, Fiesta de San Francisco de Paula, San Francisco de Paula Festival, pays tribute to the patron saint of the village in a festivity intertwined with centuries of history and cuisine. This iconic event fills the streets of Viver with an irresistible smell: Sopa del Santo, a delicious dish made of rice, cod, spring garlic, beans and saffron – with a glug of Viver extra virgin olive oil – cooked slowly in huge pots over a wood fire. The dish is more than a culinary delight: it is a legacy dating back to San Francisco de Paula Convent where the monks gave food to the hungry over four centuries ago. San Francisco de Paula Festival not only honours religion, but also provides an opportunity for the community to come together to have a good time. The sculpture of San Francisco de Paula is carried down the streets while the locals look on in devotion. The street parties fill the air with music and laughter, creating a party atmosphere that draws in both young and old alike.

Sopa del Santo becomes the focal point of the festivities. The brothers carefully serve the dish to over a thousand people who enjoy digging in. The recipe has been handed down from generation to generation and is a combination of the flavours that define Viver’s history. Beyond Sopa del Santo and the processions in honour of San Francisco de Paula, the celebration includes a street decoration competition and activities for all the family. Listed an Event of Local Tourist Interest in the Region of Valencia, the festival is a tribute to Viver’s identity, to its past and to its community spirit. With every dish served, every step made in the procession and every laugh bellowed at the street party, you will feel the rich history and the vibrant community that make this festival a highlight of the Valencian event calendar.