Valencia residents hold mass outdoor dinner to protest tourism pressure

Large crowds gathered along the Malva-rosa promenade in Valencia for a massive 'sopar a la fresca' (outdoor dinner), a traditional community event organized by local neighborhood associations including Malva-rosa, Cabanyal, Natzaret, Grau-Port, and L’Illa Perduda.

The gathering served as a demonstration of resistance against increasing tourism pressure and the conversion of residential buildings into tourist accommodations. Residents expressed a desire to reclaim their right to inhabit and use their city's public spaces.

The controversy arose following reports that some local hospitality business owners suggested restricting outdoor dining areas for residents, with one individual claiming such gatherings created a poor image. While the President of the Malva-rosa Hospitality Association, José Miralles, clarified that discussions were centered on designating specific picnic areas, the community responded by turning the tradition into a large-scale social protest.