AÑO
2018
COSTA BLANCA SOLIDARITY CALENDAR
COSTA BLANCA The Costa Blanca, or the White Coast, is actually blue - for its skies, the seas and lakes. But its name comes from the white sandy beaches all along the 200 kilometres of the Mediterranean Sea that attracts millions of visitors throughout each year. This area has 57 Blue flags flying over the 170 beaches and coves, awarded for their clean water and sands as well as amenities. There is a tremendous variety of beaches – sandy ones with coarse to fine texture, pebbled ones, some hidden behind dunes or next to pine forests, in coves under steep cliffs; there are town centre and remote beaches, with calm or choppy waters, depending on season and currents. It is not all sand and sun as there is a diversity of landscapes such as the ridge of mountains looming inland a short distance from the coast and mostly parallel to the sea. The mountains have different names such as La Serrella, or Sierra Mariola (supposedly named after a young woman desired by emperor Nero, but she threw herself over the edge of the mountain. The Montgo is also referred to as the Elephant because of its shape. Sierra Bernia lies between Callosa d’EnSarria and La Punta de Toix with fields of vineyards producing excellent wines. The Sierra Helada is probably more recognisable to the British as it lies behind Benidorm and can be seen in the British TV comedy series “Benidorm”. There’s plenty scope for mountaineering, rambling, hill walking or even caving or speleology, in the hundreds of old caves and ice wells.
When visitors from abroad fly into the region to land at Alicante/Elche airport or further down at San Javier, they can see this colourful kaleidoscope of mountains, lakes, parklands, beach and sea with hues of blue, green, gold and russet brown. Then the Costa Blanca has several protected natural parklands - Carrascal de la Font Roja, Penyal D'Ifach, Park of El Montgo, Park of El Hondo, las Salinas de Santa Pola, Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja. Here can be seen a tremendous variety of flora and fauna; a rich wildlife of migratory birds and mammals, many birds pausing on their annual flights to warmer or colder climes have a stopover in the lakes. Nature adapts to its host land, such as at the salt lakes. So Costa Blanca is ideal for birdwatchers, photographers and those who just love the countryside. There are over an hundred castles and fortresses to explore and the tourist offices have several suggested castle routes that hark back to historic battles, some remembered to day in theatrical style Moors and Christian parades. The area has numerous water parks as well as theme parks like Terra Mitica, Terra Natura Benidorm which has a large aqua park, Aitana Safari Park, Rio Safari Park, Aqualandia, Mundomar, Aquanatura and Aquópolis.
Our company offers a legal representative system in Spain for all fiscal requirements for foreign buyers and homeowner, and a personalised legal service that handles every aspect of purchasing a property in Spain. C/Ramón Gallud n° 40, 2° A - 03181 Torrevieja | Alicante (España) info@arocaseiquer.com · tel 96.571.74.11 · fax 96.670.09.37 www.arocaseiquer.com
Many professional sportsmen and sportswomen take advantage of the excellent sporting amenities for their training in whichever sport they work in. The Costa Blanca boasts many sporting facilities on land and sea including the Volvo Ocean Race that starts in the port of Alicante (where there is the Volvo Museum) every three years. This zone has football, tennis, rugby and even cricket facilities, with petanca and lawn bowling clubs almost everywhere. The area is great for bicycles on the flat or mountain and the Tour of Spain bicycle race goes up the Aitana mountain range every year. A popular sport is obviously golf and numerous golf competitions are held on the 21 courses in weather that makes it an all round year sport with 300 days of sunshine. Several of the more than twenty-five yacht clubs and marinas fly Blue Flags for their amenities and offer over 10,000 berths. There are endless opportunities to enjoy windsurfing, sailing, scuba diving, windsurfing, kite surfing, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking and rowing. Every club participates in regattas and the Altea one has an annual 200-mile yacht race. Sierra Nevada ski resorts are only a few hours drive south. Of course no holiday is complete without good food and entertainment and there are numerous establishments providing these in almost every town. Local gastronomy makes use of the fresh fish and crustaceans from the Mediterranean, the produce of fruit and vegetables from nearby orchards and fields. Many dishes are classic, such as paella, since rice also grows in this area using ingredients from land, sea and mountain. Every town has its monuments that may be a statue or buildings. The area has many old mansions, churches or hermitages of architectural value that are also rich with furniture, paintings statues that hark back to bygone days, adding an immense cultural heritage.
Dunes and Pine woods of Guardamar del Segura Property purchasing deposits secure and guaranteed. Notary fees, taxes, power of attorney and obtaining NIE numbers explained and assistance available. C/Ramón Gallud n° 40, 2° A - 03181 Torrevieja | Alicante (España) info@arocaseiquer.com · tel 96.571.74.11 · fax 96.670.09.37 www.arocaseiquer.com
Photography Phil Friar
January/enero MONDAY
TUESDAY
LUNES
01
Calpe. Crowned by the rock of the natural park of Penyal d'Ifac. Fishing and tourism, monuments include the ruins of Els banys de la reina, the salt flats, a bird sanctuary for migratory birds. WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY
MARTES
New Year Bank Holiday
02
MIÉRCOLES
UK bank Holiday
03
08
09
10
15
16
17
22
23
24
29
30
31
1st - 4th Alcoy: Representations of the Belén de Tirisiti began on 23rd December finishes on 4th January, then on the Sunday morning before the Epiphany (6th) Les Pastoretes (shepherds) celebrate: on the night of the 4th three Hogueras (bonfires) are lit on the Monte de San Cristóbal, representing the presence of the Three Kings. An emissary of the kings arrives in the town to announce the imminent arrival of their majesties. 1st and 6th Albatera: A procession on these days, carrying the Virgin’s image. 3rd Elche: Has a Living Nativity scene. 5th: In most of the towns there is a Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos, a parade of the Three Wise Men, usually in the evening. Of importance because of their
04
Meteor Shower
11
San Antón
Superfull Blue Moon
C/ Joaquín Chapaprieta, 4 03181 TORREVIEJA (Alicante - Spain)
VIERNES
05
Kings parade
SÁBADO
06
Kings Public Holiday
DOMINGO
07
Orthodox Christmas
Orthodox New Year
12
13
14
18 Interfaith Week begins 19
20
21
25
27
28
Interfaith Week ends Burns Nite
26
Notes:
splendour or antiquity are: Alicante, Alcoy, Banyeres de Marila, Benidorm, Elche, Ibi, Xixona, Xàbia, Pinoso, Gata de Gorgos, San Juan de Alicante, Torrevieja, Villena and Orihuela. 6th - 7th Cañada: The “Auto de los Reyes Magos” is a play of the arrival of the kings. On the same day a similar act is carried out in Villena. In Callosa de Segura the “Cantos de La Pastorela” is repeated. 16th - 17th: The Patronal Fiestas of San Fulgencio are held. 17th: Feast of San Antonio Abad, patron saint of animals, with many places holding a service blessing animals. There are Romerías to the hermitage of this
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Meteor Shower
JUEVES
saint held on either the preceding Sunday or the following Sunday, with a blessing of the animals: Alicante, Alcoy, Alfafara, Benidorm, Elche, Finestrat, Mutxamel, Moraira, Parent, Pedreguer, Pego, Sagra, Xàbia, Xixona are some of the places for these pilgrimages. Jacarilla, Orihuela, Torrevieja, Beniarbeig and Gata de Gorgos also celebrate this day. In Salinas the fiesta of los Mayordomos is held. A Romeria takes place in Hondón de los Frailes. Torre de La Mata Pig Day BBQ. 19th Xàbia: Celebrates San Sebastián, the town’s patron saint (Orthodox Church has this feastday on 18th December).
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20th Orihuela and Murla: hold Romerías in honour of San Sebastián. Fiestas in Sax. 22nd: In the church of Agost there is a serenade of popular songs held, heralding the patronal fiestas in honour of the Virgen de la Paz on the 23rd January. 26th: The people of Dénia have a pilgrimage to the hermitage of Santa Paula. Orihuela Medieval Market. Santa Pola Tapeix Route. Rojales “Cuchara/Spoon Food Route”.
Photography Phil Friar
February/febrero MONDAY
TUESDAY
LUNES
MARTES
Benidorm. Crown of the Costa is a bustling all-year-round holiday resort noted for its hotel skyline and golden beaches, excellent night entertainment and shopping. WEDNESDAY MIÉRCOLES
Notes:
07
THURSDAY
13
19
20
21
22
26
27
28
Notes:
Start of the carnival season. 1st: Orihuela Medieval market. 9th - 10th El Pinos Villazgo: Market with traditional music and typical food. 11th: Saint Bernadette of Lourdes and the Torrevieja Lourdes Association hold a procession from parish to parish. 12th: Feast of Santa Eulalia is celebrated in Sax. 13th: Pancake Tuesday with Ash Wednesday next, the start of Lent or Cuaresema. This period is also the time for the carnivals and in Pego there is the celebration on the Saturday before the commencement of the carnival known as “La Baixada del Ríu Bullent” when youngsters go down the river on a variety of
14
Valentine Day Ash Wednesday
15
homemade vessels using recyclable materials. Carnivals are usually held on the weekend before 14th February. Ash Wednesday in: Alacant, Calpe, Muro de Alcoy, Benidorm, Castalla, Pedreguer, Pego, Guardamar del Segura, Villena, San Juan de Alicante, Sant Vicent del Raspeig, Xixona, Xàbia, Torrevieja and Novelda, but do check your local tourist offices. In Planes the Flour festival is held. The V Drag Queen Competiton is held in Torrevieja. In the middle weekend (13-15) of February Moors & Christian parades take place in Xixona. The weekend before Lent (13-15) begins the Festival
Plaza de La Constitución, 9 - TORREVIEJA Tel.: (+34) 96 670 10 53 - info@atlastorrevieja.com
Nirvana Day
DOMINGO
04
9
10
11
16
17
18
23
24
25
08
12
SUNDAY
SÁBADO
03
02
06
SATURDAY
VIERNES
01
05
Pancake Tuesday
FRIDAY
JUEVES
Wetland’s Day
Chinese New Year’s (Brown Earth Dog Year)
del Santísmo Cristo de la Salud is held, patron of Altea la Vella. 14th: St. Valentine. 16th -17th Jijona: Ice Cream carnival parade. Cartagena/Alicante - carnival parade with a "Burial of the Sardine". Aguilas in Murcia is famous for its carnivals and has a great Carnival Museum. 27th: Day of Andalucía with local associations holding traditional song and dance events. The Monday 12th prior to the start of Lent the Festa de la Cremà del Pi is held in Agres.
Cancer Day
Full Moon Lunar Eclipse
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Photography Phil Friar
March/MARZO MONDAY
Villajoisa is a fishing town noted for its painted buildings, chocolate factories with museum, and fine cuisine.
TUESDAY
LUNES
WEDNESDAY
MARTES
THURSDAY
MIÉRCOLES
01
Notes:
05
06
07
08
12
13
14
15
19 San Jose Father´s Day 20
21
26
28
27
FRIDAY
JUEVES
Poetry Day Downs Syndrome Day
St. David Day Balearics Day
Int. Women’s Day
22 29
Water Day
SATURDAY
VIERNES
02
Full Moon
03
09
10
16
17
23
24
30
Good Friday
SUNDAY
SÁBADO
31
Wildlife Day
DOMINGO
04 11
St. Patrick Day
UK Mothering Day
18 25
Antislavery Day
Blue Full Moon Clocks forward (+ 1 hora)
19th: Public holiday in Castilla-La Mancha, Galicia, La
effigies, on the 19th March. Other places that
Almoradí Olla gastro.
1st: The Fiesta of the Miracle of the Tear is held in
Rioja, Madrid, Melilla, Murcia, Navarra, Comunidad Valenciana only.
Albatera Gin & Tapas.
Mutxamel (Milagro de la Lágrima).
19th - 29th: The Moors & Christian parades in the
8th: Procession in Mutxamel.
district of Villafranqueza in Alicante are held.
15th - 23rd: San Vicente de Raspeig and Denia Moors
21st Almoradí: holds a San Emigdio remembrance
& Christians.
service of the 1829 earthquake.
17th Torrevieja: Rocio Choirs Encuentro.
Valencia
celebrate with Fallas are: Albalat, Alboraya, Alcasser, Algemesi, Algenet, Azira, Benaguasil, Benifaio, Betera, Buñol, Catarroja, Dos Aguas, Gandia, Manises, Oliva, Ontenient, Paterna, Picassent, Puzol, Sagunto, Silla, Sueca, Tavernes de la Valldigna, Torrent, Utiel, Xativa, Burriana, Vall d’Uixo, Peñiscola and Viver. Alicante city, Denia, Calpe, Guardamar del Segura, Pego, Benidorm and Mazzarón.
St. Patrick, three day fiesta in Orihuela Costa, Daya Vieja and Lorca.
internationally as being spectacular and important,
Two full moons this month: 2nd - Full Moon and 31st Full Moon, Blue Moon.
City:
Fallas
fiestas
are
well-known
beginning on 15th, with the Cremá, the burning of the
Orihuela Street food market. March/April - Torrevieja radio controlled boats exposition in Park of Nations.
Pilar de la Horadada Lent Food/Cuaresma cocina. Crevillente Tapas Ruta. Cartagena Tapas y Asiasticas cocina.
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BRITHOL AGENCIA DE SEGUROS S.L.
Agencia de Seguros Exclusiva de MAPFRE S.A.
C/ Villamadrid, 37 (03181) - Torrevieja - Alicante - España T· (+34) - 966 70 39 35 • F. (+34) - 965 70 73 43 engraci@mapfre.com
Photography Phil Friar
April /ABRIL MONDAY
Alicante city and port, dominated by Santa Bárbara Castle; modern shopping, great night life and monthly fiestas.
TUESDAY
LUNES
WEDNESDAY
MARTES
MIÉRCOLES
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
JUEVES
SATURDAY
VIERNES
SUNDAY
SÁBADO
DOMINGO
01
Notes:
April Easter Sunday
02 National Public Holiday 03
04
05
06
07
08
09
Local Bank Holiday
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Easter/Pascua
17
18
19
20
21
22 Lyrids Meteor Shower
25
26
27
28
29
Autism Day
23 | 30
24
Yom HaShoah
Early Easter Sunday morning there is a magnificent procession of the Resurrection Encuentro in Alcoy, Torrevieja and many other towns. The Monday following Easter Monday (2nd) is a local holiday, the feast of San Vicente Ferrer, known as the day of la mona; a sweet bread is eaten at picnics, sometimes containing a boiled egg. On the same day a Romería is held in Benidoleig. Other fiestas are in Benejama, Biar, Guardamar del Segura, La Nucia and Torrevieja. Moors & Christians parades in Teulada and San Vicente de Raspeig over
this weekend. On this weekend thousands of people take part in the Romería of the Virgen del Rosario in Albatera that dates back to the 16th century, the group ending up at the sanctuary of Serralba at the foot of the mountains. 5th: Large Santa Faz procession in Alicante. Los Alcázares medieval market with Berbers parades. 6th - 9th: The Moors & Christian festivities in Busot are held for 4 days falling on the weekend after Easter Sunday. 13th and 14th Torrevieja: Nagar Kirtan, Sikh
Juvenil Habaneras
procession. 16th -19th Cocentaina: Holds the Mare de Déu del Miracle fiestas. 20th - 21st: The 24th International Juvenil Habaneras Competition. 22nd - 24th: Exceptional Moors & Christian Fiestas in honour of Saint George in Alcoy and Banyares de Mariola. Orihuela Costa three-day market and entertainment in honour of St George. 23rd: International Jazz Day. 23rd: Public holidays in Aragón and Castilla y León.
23rd April to 1st May: Benifallima hold Moors & Christians parades. 27th April to 3rd May: Jávea celebrates the fiestas of Jesús Nazareno. 28th April to 1st May: Moors & Christians fiestas in Onil. 29th: International Dance Day. 30th April to 3rd May: Moors & Christians in Granja de Rocamora.
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Photography John Rook
May/MAYO
MONDAY
Moraira/Teulada are quiet but popular tourist towns with fishing market and excellent beaches.
TUESDAY
LUNES
WEDNESDAY
MARTES
MIÉRCOLES
01
Public Holiday
02
08
Red Cross Day
09
14
15
Ramadan Begins
16
21
22
07
28
UK/Ireland Public Holiday
UK Spring bank Holiday
29
Full Moon
Torrevieja’s annual Sevillanas fair, lasting almost a week, is a tremendous opportunity for women to flaunt themselves in typical Andalucian dresses, dance and sing, singly or in choirs. This year it will be once again in the Fairground area. Pilar de la Horadada and Almoradí now hold similar fiestas. 1st: Bank Holiday in Spain. Xàbia holds the procession of the Virgen del Loreto. 1st - 3rd: Fiestas of flower Crosses of May in Torrevieja (Calvario plaza) and in the streets in Santa Cruz district in Alicante, Orihuela, L’Alfàs del Pi, Benidorm, Muchamiel, Aspe, Caravaca, Lorca, Xàbia,
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
JUEVES
SATURDAY
VIERNES
SUNDAY
SÁBADO
DOMINGO
03 Press Freedom Day 04
05
06
European Day
10
11
12
13
Museum Day
17
18
19
20
Pentecost Day
23
24
25
26
27
Trinity Sunday
30
31
Ascencion Day
Castilla la Mancha Day
Callosa de Segura and Redován – with special events. Beniferri has a Romería. 4th- 5th Jávea: Holds Romería in honour of the Virgen del Rocío. Castellfort has the Romería A Sant Pere de Castelfort with origins in 1321, noted for bell ringing. 5th - 7th Villajoyosa: Holds a festival on the first weekend of the month. 6th - 7th: Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower. 7th - 8th Novelda: Fiestas in the Cruz district of the town. Moors and Christian in Banyares de Mariola and Dénia holds the festival of “Nuestra Señora de los
Día de la Madre Aquarids Meteors
Notes:
Desamparados”. Albatera celebrations of San Pancracio. 8th - 13th : Feria de Mayo in Torrevieja. 9th - 12th: Moors & Christians in Biar. 13th- 14th: Moors & Christians in Petrer. 13th - 15th: San Isidro is patron saint of agriculture, celebrated in many towns with processions and romerías either on the actual date or the following weekend. A big Madrid holiday but held in Benejama, Castalla, Salinas, Albatera, Daya Nueva, Hondón de Los Frailes, Hondón de las Nieves, la Romana, Cox, Orihuela, Pilar de la Horadada, Rojales, Yecla and
Torrevieja with Madrid residents. 17th: San Pascual Bailón is celebrated in Alicante, Elche, Albatera. Romería in Castalla and Ibi. The famous pilgrimage Romería de Orito is held in Montforte del Cid. 30th - 31st: Fiestas held in Ibi and in Formentera del Segura. Torrevieja Ars Creatio holds XIII Gala anniversary. Torrevieja Rice Festival. Torrevieja Internastional Cuisine. Orihuela Gin & Tapas. Redován Tapas Route. Alicante Cine Festival.
Photography Phil Friar
June /JUNIO
MONDAY
TUESDAY
LUNES
MARTES
Tabarca Island is a former pirate stronghold with natural marine park. Visited daily by ferry connections from Alicante, Santa Pola, Torrevieja. WEDNESDAY MIÉRCOLES
THURSDAY
Irish Holiday
11 18 25
VIERNES
01
Notes:
04
FRIDAY
JUEVES
Corpus Christi Hogueras begin
Rojales Fiestas
05
06
12
13
St. Antony
14
Ramadan Ends
15
19
20
Int. Refugee Day
21
Summer Solstice
22
26
27
28
Full Moon
29
5th Guadalest: Celebrates Fiestas of San Gregorio. In Benejúzar the patronal fiestas of la Santísima Virgen del Rosario are held. Ibi holds fiestas in Campos area. 7th - 10th: Sacred Heart fiestas in plaza Oriente, Torrevieja. 13th Torrelamata: St. Antonio Fiestas Romería in Banyares de Mariola. Romería in Torrevieja 14th - 24th: Hogueras in Xàbia. 17th -19th: Feast of San Antonio de Padua in Altea and in La Mata. The Holy Trinity fiestas are held in Dénia. 18th: is Corpus Christi celebrated in many towns and
07
08
in Valencia city with medieval parade; other towns including Torrevieja hold a procession on the following Sunday. 19th - 21st: Moors & Christians in Teulada. 20th - 24th: Hogueras in Alicante, Benidorm, Torrevieja, Alcalalí, Altea, Beniardà, Benidorm, Benejama, Calpe, Santa Pola (Romería), Xàbia, Montforte del Cid, Dénia, Gata de Gorgos, San Miguel de las Salinas, San Pedro del Pinatar, Guardamar del Segura and Catral. 22nd - 24th Catral: Patronal fiestas with Moors & Christians and a multicolor parade.
Eid-al-Fitr
SS Peter & Paul
C/ Joaquín Chapaprieta, 4 03181 TORREVIEJA (Alicante - Spain)
SUNDAY
SÁBADO
DOMINGO
02
03
09
10
16
17
23
24
30
27th - 28th: Moors & Christians in Pego. 29th: Feast of Saints Peter & Paul. Celebrated in Rojales with Moors & Christians; in Guardamar del Segura, Dénia; Moors & Christians in Benissa and Agost. Patronal fiestas on the Island of Tabarca, La Mata and Torretas of Torrevieja. 27th: Is a fiesta in honour of Nuestra Señora del Perpetual Socorro in Almoradí and doctors of Torrevieja. Torrevieja Seafood Festival. La Mata and Pilar de la Horadada Tapas route. San Javier Internacional Jazz Festival beguins through to July.
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Sagrado Corazón Oceans Day
SATURDAY
Trooping the Colour UK Father’s Day
S. Juan Hogueras
Gay Pride
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Photography Phil Friar
July/JULIO
MONDAY
Novelda town has agricultural and shoe industry, notable for its medieval castle and strangely shaped sanctuary.
TUESDAY
LUNES
WEDNESDAY
MARTES
MIÉRCOLES
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
JUEVES
SATURDAY
VIERNES
SUNDAY
SÁBADO
DOMINGO
01
Notes:
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Virgen del Carmen (Local Holiday)
23|30
Habaneras (23) Friendship Day (30)
17
Habaneras
24|31
July into August Valencia Summer Fair ends with a Parade of flowering floats and a battle of flowers. Cartagena Mar de Música Festival. San Javier Jazz Festival. “L’ALFAS EN JAZZ”. 30th Film Festival in L’Alfás del Pi. International Music Festival in Benicassim. 1st: Pego Celebrates el Día de la Sangre. First weekend of the month there are the fiestas of “Bouet de la Sang” in Castalla: in the Dulzura district in Ibi: in the San Pedro area of Benifato. Unusual fun fiestas of “de las Fadrins” in Tárbena. 7th July - 4th August Almoradí: Fair and Fiestas,
18 25
Habaneras
Santiago Holiday in some places
19
Habaneras
20
Habaneras
21
Habaneras
22
26
Grandparents Day
27
Full Moon
28
Hepatitis Day
29
Moors and Christians parades. 10th Biar: Celebrates the fiesta de San Cristóbal. 8th - 10th: Hogueras 4-day fiesta in San Vicente del Raspeig. Moors & Christians in Benitachell. Patronal fiestas in Orba. 14th: Santa María Magdalena are the main fiestas in Tibi, ending around the 25th July. Patronal fiestas in Cañada week preceding 16th July in honour of Virgen del Carmen. 15th - 22nd: Moors & Christians in Orihuela and Albatera. 15th - 25th: Santa María Magdalena celebrated in Novelda with Romería and Moors & Christian parades.
Plaza de La Constitución, 9 - TORREVIEJA Tel.: (+34) 96 670 10 53 - info@atlastorrevieja.com
Castellón towns hold many fiestas at this time for this patron saint. 16th: Virgen del Carmen - El Campello, Benidorm, Calpe, Tabarca Island, La Villajoyosa, Santa Pola, Torrevieja, Xàbia, Cox, Moraira are among those who celebrate this fiesta. Altea combines this feast with that of St. Peter. 17th- 21st Javea: Moors & Christians. 17th: Fallas (bonfires) in Orihuela. 19th - 26th: Fiestas in honour of Santa Ana in Ondara. 20th - 21st: Guardamar del Segura honour San Jaime with Moors & Christians parades. 22nd: Banyares de Mariola Fiestas of Santa María
www.segurosentorrevieja.es
Habaneras
Magdalena. 22 July - 11th August: Alicante fiestas in honour of the Virgen del Remedio. 22nd - 25th: Patronal fiestas in Benitachell. 24th: La Villajoyosa -Spectacular Moors & Christians. 25th: San Jaime - local holiday in many towns such as Benijófar patronal fiestas. 26th: Romería in Benefallím and Onil. 27th - 29th: Low Cost Fest in Benidorm. 28th - 30th: Patronal fiestas in Algueña. 30th - 31st: Fiestas in Pilar de la Horadada, Los Montesinos.“Bous al carrer” in Els Poblets, Benimarfull, Benirrama, Tollos, Orba, Tuelada, Gata de Gorgos.
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Photography Phil Friar
August /AGOSTO MONDAY
TUESDAY
LUNES
13
Scot/Ireland
Perseids Meteor Shower
20 27
UK Bank Holiday
WEDNESDAY
MARTES
THURSDAY
MIÉRCOLES
FRIDAY
JUEVES
SATURDAY
VIERNES
SUNDAY
SÁBADO
DOMINGO
01
02
03
04
05
07
08
09
10
11
12
Youth Day
14
15
16
17
18
19
Humanitarian Day
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Full Moon
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Notes:
Notes:
06
Elche is an historical inland city with many monuments, especially its natural palm groves; it has a long coastline with six excellent beaches and August a month of fiestas.
Assumption Bank Holiday
Elche First two weeks "Settlers Festival" Iberians,
5th - 6th Torrevieja: San Emigdio festival in Parque de
Denia Moors & Christians.
Romans, Moors.
las Naciones.
13th Elche: Firework display as part of all month
Aspe Celebrations all month.
4th - 5th Cuidad Quesada: Local Festival.
fiestas, including film festival.
Los Alcázares International Week of Sea and Orchards.
12th Altea: Castel de Olla - wonderful musical
14th - 15th Elche: Medieval Mystery play and
La Unión International music festival “Cante de las
firework display.
Medieval Music Festival.
Minas”.
11th - 15th: Callosa del Segura and Cocetaina Moors
14th Orihuela: Livestock fair.
Torrepacheco Melon Festival.
& Christians.
15th - 16th Torrevieja: SS Roque & Ana fiestas.
Dolores Livestock fair.
Xixona Folklore dance festival followed by Moors &
Torrevieja Salsa Festival Torrevieja.
Christians.
24th Orihuela: San Bartolomé Fiestas. 27th - 28th Hondón de los Frailes and Formentera del
Torrevieja's annual Band festival begins.
11th -16th: In Bigastro Patronal Fiestas of San
Segura celebrate Summer Fiestas.
1st - 8th Pinoso: Patronal fiestas.
Joaquín.
Torrevieja's annual Band festival begins.
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Playa Elisa Bay development on the Orihuela Costa offers an exceptionally attractive 2/3 bed property built to high specifications and close to every amenity
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Tel.: 965 71 94 37
Photography Phil Friar
September/SEPTIEMBRE MONDAY
TUESDAY
LUNES
WEDNESDAY
MARTES
MIÉRCOLES
L’Algar waterfalls is a natural 1.5 kilometre green area with crystal waters in cascades; in Callosa d’Sarria and has an environmental museum. THURSDAY
FRIDAY
JUEVES
SATURDAY
VIERNES
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Notes:
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Full Moon
In the first weekend there are fiestas in many towns that are linked to the 8th September the birth of Mary, who is revered on this date under several titles. 1st - 4th Castalla: Main fiestas of Moors & Christians. 1st - 8th Ibi: Moors & Christians. 3rd - 4th: Patronal Fiestas in Tormos and traditional dancing in Benilloba. Banyares de Mariola holds “Festa de la Reliquia”. Saint Thomas is honoured in Altea. A Romería in Castel de Castells for the Virgen de Petracos. Teulada Festival of Moscatell. Peñiscola traditional dance festival.
Charity Day
Yom Kippur
26
Agencia de Seguros Exclusiva de MAPFRE S.A.
C/ Villamadrid, 37 (03181) - Torrevieja - Alicante - España T· (+34) - 966 70 39 35 • F. (+34) - 965 70 73 43 engraci@mapfre.com
Care for Creation
DOMINGO
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Valencia City and Murcia International Folklore festivals. Segorbe livestock fair, bull and horses “corrida”. 3rd - 8th Santa Pola: Patronal fiestas including Moors & Christians. 4th - 9th: Moors & Christians in Villena and in Adsubia with Fadrins. 6th - 8th Mutxamel: hold fiestas. Patronal fiestas in Orihuela. 6th - 10th: Moors & Christians in Beneixama. 6th - 18th: Elda holds main fiestas including Fallas. 7th Daya Vieja: hold patronal fiestas in honor of Nuestra Señora de Montserrate. 7th - 8th: Patronal Fiestas in Jacarilla.
BRITHOL AGENCIA DE SEGUROS S.L.
SUNDAY
SÁBADO
Virgen de Loreto Asturias and Extramadura
Peace Day
29
7th- 10th Montforte del Cid: Holds festival of Virgen de Orito. 8th Guardamar de Segura: have fiestas in honour of the Virgen de Fátima. Moors & Christians in the patronal fiestas at Redován. 8th - 11th Dolores: Patronal fiestas. 9th - 11th: Moors & Christians in the patronal fiestas of Aigües. 9th - 12th: Moors & Christian fiestas in Mutxamel. 12th - 18th: Patronal fiestas with Moors & Christians in Altea. 15th Sax: Fiesta de la Virgen de los Frutos. 18th: Romería to the Sanctuary of the Mare de Déu de la Font Roja at Alcoy.
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Heart day
Rosh Hashana (Jewish new year)
30
21st - 23rd: Santa Cecilia patroness of music with concerts in Torrevieja and Alfafara. Lorca artisan fair. 27th - 29th Redován: Has the Romería a la Virgen de la Salud. 20th - 29th (variable): Carthaginian and Roman festival; National Touristic Interest. 29th San Miguel de Salinas: Holds patronal fiestas. 29th Sept - 7th October: Patronal fiestas in San Fulgencio. 25th: Cristo de las Campanas in Almoradí.
Photography Phil Friar
October /OCTUBRE MONDAY
TUESDAY
LUNES
01 08
World Music Day
Pilar de la Horadada the southern town of the Costa Blanca with old tower, port and beaches as well as inland woods and hills.
WEDNESDAY
MARTES
MIÉRCOLES
02
THURSDAY
04
05 12
Valencia Day
10
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15
16
World Food Day
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22
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24
Full Moon
25
30
31
Halloween
Notes:
29
Irish Holiday
October is the month of the Angels and the Virgen of the Rosary, so fiestas tend to have a religious bent. On each Sunday of the month the songs of the “Rosario de la Aurora” are sung in Benferri, Callosa de Segura, Benijófar and Granja de Rocamora. With fiestas on Tuesday 9th and Friday 12th many people will take a week or long weekend holiday. Several towns now hold a German style beer Oktoberfest including Calpe, Orihuela Costa and Torrevieja. Torrevieja also holds an annual Associations Day.
Anti-slavery Day
An annual Torrevieja event is the Agility Trials for dogs and handlers. Torrevieja Outlet Fair and Old Books Fair. 1st - 2nd: Moors & Christians in Benidorm. 1st - 10th: Patronal fiestas of Rafal and Patronal fiestas in Pilar de la Horadada. 1st - 4th: Moors & Christians in Crevillente of National Touristic Interest. Patronal Fiestas of Sella and in Planes. 1st - 9th Alcoy: Holds a week of traditional dancing. 6th - 7th Guardamar del Segura: Celebrates the
SATURDAY
VIERNES
03
09
Draconids Meteor Shower
FRIDAY
JUEVES
Hispanic Day Public Holiday
SUNDAY
SÁBADO
DOMINGO
06
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festival of the Virgen del Rosario. 7th Petrer: Honours the Virgen del Remedio and every Sunday of October the carnival type fiesta of les Carasses is held with old traditional dances. 7th - 12th: Patronal fiestas of Los Montesinos and 16th “Baile del Vino”. 8th - 11th: Moors & Christians in Callosa d’En Sarrià. 9th: Virgen del Rosario fiestas are held in Albatera, Rojales and Torrelamata (Torrevieja). 12th: National holiday in honour of the Virgen del Pilar celebrated in every town, but especially in Pilar de la Horadada.
Breast Cancer Day
21 28
Orionids Meteor Shower
Clocks Back (- 1 hora)
12th - 15th: El Campello Moors & Christian fiestas. 13th - 15th: Patronal Fiestas of Benimantell. 15th - 30th : Feria in Villena. 17th - 19th: The Holy Trinity fiestas are held in Dénia. 19th - 22nd: Calpe fiestas. 22nd - 30th: Calpe holds the Gran Día de las Quintas. 30th: The Virgen del Rosario in Granja de Rocamora. On the same day are San Crispín fiestas in Elche.
Photography Phil Friar
November /NOVIEMBRE MONDAY
TUESDAY
LUNES
WEDNESDAY
MARTES
MIÉRCOLES
THURSDAY
Journalism Day
DOMINGO
03
04
10
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15
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21
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Full Moon
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28
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St. Andrews Day
12
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26
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Guardia Civil 062 Policia nacional 091 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 016
02
SUNDAY
SÁBADO
09
07
EMERGENCY TELEPHONE: 112
All Saints Public Holiday
SATURDAY
VIERNES
08
06
Guy Fawkes
FRIDAY
JUEVES
01
Notes:
05
Guadalest is an inland gem of a small-fortified town, surrounded by reservoir and forest and L’Algar water falls nearby and possibly the most visited place in Spain.
Diabetes Day
Taurids Meteor Shower
Remembrance Day
Notes:
1st week: Villena Feria.
offering Spanish and Nordic culture and art in general
honour of Santa Catalina.
1st: All Saints Day is a national public holiday when
and Norway.
28th - 30th: Fiestas and Romeria in Tibi in memory of
people visit the cemeteries, clean the graves of
11th: Remembrance day services, including at La
the theft of the Sacred Host in nearby Onil.
departed ones and lay flowers. Some towns, including
Siesta church in Torrevieja and at Mil Palmeras
Torrevieja have a free bus service to the local
church.
The Saturday nearest to the 28th similar fiestas in Onil.
cemetery.
2nd weekend: Benidorm patronal fiestas, lasting five
30th: Saint Andrew fiesta in Almoradí and Scottish
1st - 3rd: Huge Cocentaina medieval market of “La
days from 9th.
celebrations in various towns.
Fira de Tots els Sants” is held offers wares, music and
3rd weekend: Benidorm “Festa de la Carxofa”.
spectacular drama.
“Romería” in La Nucia to the San Rafael sanctuary.
7th - 10th L’Alfàs del Pi: Patronal fiestas and the
22nd Teulada: Celebrates the fiesta of Santa Catalina.
annual Hispanic Week - Nordic, with the aim of
24th Pinoso: Hogueras and on 25th a procession in
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Photography Nicolás García Villalgordo
December /DICIEMBRE MONDAY
TUESDAY
LUNES
Torrevieja. A busy tourist town with three yachting marinas, a pink salt producing lake, and a second lake has protected natural parkland with numerous birds.
WEDNESDAY
MARTES
MIÉRCOLES
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
JUEVES
03
17
Human Rights Day
04
05
11
12
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19
20
24|31Hogmanay (31) 25
Christmas Public Holiday
2nd - 4th: Sella Fiestas. 3rd - 4th Altea: Santa Barbara fiestas. 4th Alcoy: San Mauro Martyr. 5th - 8th Torrevieja: Patronal fiestas of La Inmaculada; large crib scene in main plaza and Scandinavian Christmas tree. 5th - 9th: Moors & Christians in Montforte del Cid. 6th: Day of Spanish Constituition and a National Public Holiday. 8th: National Public Holiday of La Inmaculada. 8th - 9th: Fiesta of the Fadrines in Torremanzanas.
26
Int. Volunteer Day
UK holiday
06
Constitution Public Holiday
Geminids Meteor Shower
27
La Purísima celebrated in Altea, Pedreguer, Benijófar and Catral. Opening of Christmas Crib scene in Torrevieja main plaza. 8th: Craft Fair in la Alameda de San Antón, Cartagena until 5th January. 9th - 11th: Santa Lucía is celebrated in Banyares de Mariola, Ibi, Dénia and Xàbia and also Scandinavian festival of Light. 23rd Alcoy: El Belén de Tirisiti is held until 4th Jan. 24th Callosa del Segura: At the Midnight Mass a traditional religious song “La Pastorela” is sung and a
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UK holiday
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Solstice
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special polyphonic Mass sung in Catral. 25th: Christmas Day - a public holiday. Albatera holds a procession. 25th - 6th January: In Rafal a Zarzuela Pastoril about Christmas and shepherds. 26th: “Les Danses del Rei Moro” held in Agost until New Year’s Day. 27th Catral: Celebrates St. John the Evangelist. 28th: Day of the Innocents or Spanish version of April Fools Day. Ibi holds the “Festa dels Enfarinats” and has typical dancing.
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SUNDAY
SÁBADO
01
Notes:
10
SATURDAY
VIERNES
AIDS Day
Inm. Conception Bank Holiday
DOMINGO
02 Hanukkah (2 - 10th) 09 16
Full moon
23 30
28th - 29th Elche and Santa Pola: Celebrates the Venida de la Virgen, the lead in to their August fiestas.
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Culture and fiestas A prime attraction to tourists is the culture of Spain; especially the Costa Blanca has a large and mixed share of it. Every town has its cultural centre, with larger ones having auditoriums and theatres, each offering a part of the rich traditions of music, dance and theatre. Local and international artistes perform and with the influx of resident tourists from other places the local traditions have been enhanced. Art in all its forms is easily available, not only to view, but to be immersed in one of the many groups offered by an international community. A grand part of life on the Costa Blanca is the joy, colour and splendour of the fiestas that can be experienced on a daily basis in the region. January heralds the Three Kings parades, running into carnival processions, followed by the Holy Week processions that offer splendid examples of craftsmanship and devotion. April brings on the start of Moors & Christian
Agradecimientos/Credits: Photos: Phil Friar, John Rook, Nicolás García Villalgordo, Antonio García, Joaquín Carrión. Graphics & Design: Carlos García Research & text: Andy Ormiston Printed by Hurpograf. S.L. And to our Sponsors.
festivities. Since May is a lovely month with Spring everywhere there are towns dependent on agriculture with celebrations relating to the labour of producing the food we consume. Each month has its main event and many towns have celebrations of Andalucían roots due to the internal immigration of the populace in times gone by. Medieval markets are now popular attractions and in June, San Juan represents the summer solstice celebrated in many towns with every street corner having huge hogueras that are consumed by flames in summer heat. Summer regattas, the seamen’s Virgen del Carmen processions… the list goes on until Christmas as each village, every town celebrates its origins and existence. Always check out with tourist offices what is going on in the area where you live or are visiting.