The local fair takes place each year, with traditional Spanish folk music, spectacular Sevillanas dancing performances, and a diverse assortment of gastronomic treats served under marquees (casetas) specially erected for the festival.

A program has been prepared with performances by local dance academies every night at 20:00 on a stage that will be mounted in the centre of the venue.

The musical atmosphere will be provided by a DJ who will entertain with the same music in all the booths.

The fair is organised by the Town Hall in association with local businesses, and, as with previous iterations of the Torrevieja Sevillanas Fair, the Council has been keen to promote the Fiesta to both residents and visitors to the Costa Blanca destination.

Torrevieja Sevillanas Fair, Thursday 7th May to Sunday 10th May 2026

The Torrevieja May Fair won't be able to take place in the usual venue due to the continuing (albeit almost complete) building works of the Paseo del Mar leisure and retail complex in the port.

Instead, the fiesta takes place in the Parque de Antonio Sòria adjacent to the market and Aquopolis water park. The fair promises to fill the Mediterranean city with the sounds of traditional Sevillanas music, and it's a cultural spectacle not to be missed.

Fifteen small booths decorated in an Andalusian style will be present, with the local groups that usually participate in the fair.

The Torrevieja Sevillanas Fair takes place from 21:00 on Thursday 7th May to Sunday 10th May 2026. Follow this link for more information from the official website.

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Photo credit: LaZenia.com

Our neighbouring Mediterranean coastal city of Torrevieja is no exception. This year, the Costa Blanca's southern capital is pulling out all the stops to provide a religious and cultural spectacle that will dazzle the crowds.

The Torrevieja Easter parades and the accompanying fiestas are a faithful tradition, with spectacular processions that encompass and showcase the enchanting magic of Spanish culture and Catholic religious mystery.

The processions are accompanied by religious music and chants, adding to the solemn and reflective atmosphere.

Easter Holy Week parades to take place in Torrevieja

The celebrations last one whole week, starting on Palm Sunday each year, and culminating with some genuinely sensational parades throughout the city the following weekend.

The Easter processions that wind their way through the bustling streets of Torrevieja's metropolis have their roots firmly in medieval Spain, with the adoption of widespread religious rituals popularised during the Baroque Period.

The processions are typified by solemn brotherhoods and religious fraternities of both men and women that dress in traditional robes known as the “Nazareno”.

The ancient penitential garment consists of a tunic, a cloak, and a foreboding hood with a conical tip that conceals the face of the wearer.

The type of garment worn depends on the particular procession, and the religious colours and crest of the brotherhood or fraternity determine the exact colour and form of the Nazareno.

Semana Santa in Torrevieja city during April 2026

The annual parade schedule kicks off on Sunday 29th March, with two Palm Sunday parades departing from the Plaza de Oriente in the city centre, one at 10:30, the other at 18:30.

Additional parades take place each day during the week, with two further processions scheduled for the evening of Thursday 2nd April. The first occurs at 22:00, with another following at midnight.

The largest procession of Holy Week takes place on Good Friday, 3rd April 2026. The “Procesión Viernes Santo” involves 15 local brotherhoods and an audience of thousands, who will watch the parade depart the Parroquia Arciprestal de la Inmaculada Concepción at 19:00.

You'll need to be an early riser to catch Easter Sunday's procession, with the “Domingo de Resurreccion” starting at 08:00 on Sunday 5th April.

The parade begins at the Parroquia Arciprestal de la Inmaculada Concepción and winds through Torrevieja's small streets surrounding the square.

Torrevieja's colourful Easter processions

Starting as a solemn march through the city's streets, the procession ends on an upbeat note, with rousing music, a shower of flower petals, ringing church bells, and fire-crackers thrown in the street.

Despite the early hour, the procession is well attended, with people coming to enjoy the infectious emotion that emerges from the passionate style in which Torrevieja celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

You can find full details of the Easter processions in Torrevieja, including detailed route maps, by visiting the official Torrevieja Tourist Office website.

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And “colossal” is no understatement. 1.3 million people flocked to the Murcian capital to witness the spectacular parade last year, with hotels in the city bursting at full capacity on Good Friday.

The Burial of the Sardine, or the “Entierro de la Sardina”, is a tradition that dates back to 1851, with the quirky festival celebrating its 175th iteration this year in 2026.

It's the pinnacle of Murcia's social calendar, and this extraordinary event marks the dramatic finale of the city's “Fiestas de Primavera,” earning its designation as a Fiesta of International Tourist Interest, noted for its originality and diversity.

The Burial of the Sardine, a spectacular and unusual parade

The divine and seemingly immortal slender fish at the heart of the festivities is part of an elaborate grand parade that features floats, costumed groups, music, and a famously chaotic tradition of throwing toys and gifts to the crowd in honour of the Gods of Olympus.

The “Gran Desfile del Entierro de la Sardina” features giants with oversized heads, firebrands, acrobats, demons, and groups of Brazilian samba guards accompanying dozens of exotically decorated floats, with each float belonging to a sardine association, or “Agrupación Sardinera”.

The parade concludes with the burning of the sardine – an oversized, brightly painted effigy of the perennial fish made of stone and cardboard, in a playful and symbolic farewell.

This act of fire, accompanied by music and fireworks, is more than mere spectacle: it is a cathartic, almost mythic ritual representing renewal and the joyous rebirth of the season.

A tradition of heritage in Murcia, the “Entierro de la Sardina”

In the days leading up to the burial, the city comes alive with a spectrum of events, including the Testamento de Doña Sardina, a deliberately humorous reading of Doña Sardina's “Last Will” punctuated with satire and social commentary.

Over the decades, the event has grown into an elaborate annual tradition with a distinctive Murcian flavour. Today, the event is a massive undertaking for the city of Murcia, requiring the deployment of 600 local police officers, 250 fire safety personnel, and nearly 700 street cleaners.

Many central streets are closed to traffic, and large parts of the route are restricted during the parade (such as Gran Vía, Plaza Circular, Avenida de la Constitución), making street parking and driving in the historic centre extremely difficult.

Free park-and-ride parking areas (Aparcamientos Disuasorios) operate on the day of the festival to keep the centre less congested. These are intended for visitors and locals alike, and visitors have the option to walk or use local transport to get to the city centre.

Visiting the parade, a festival guide for visitors

The main parade, the “Gran Desfile del Entierro de la Sardina”, starts at 20:30, but be aware that the city centre becomes very busy well before this time, with spectators arriving early to secure good viewing spots. Allow plenty of time for local travel into the city itself.

The parade proceeds along major thoroughfares, including Avenida de San Juan de la Cruz, Santa Joaquina de Vedruna, Calle Princesa, and Alameda de Colón. From here it continues through historic parts of the city, passing landmarks like Plaza de Camachos and Puente Viejo.

The Burial of the Sardine takes place in the centre of Murcia from 20:30 on Saturday 11th April 2026. Find more information on the official website.

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Photo credit: Alexander Pichlmayr

For three days, the historic city centre will become an authentic open-air medieval stage, with more than 300 artisan stalls spread throughout its most monumental streets and squares.

Considered one of the great benchmarks of the genre at the national level, this market is not just a commercial event, but an immersive cultural experience that combines history, tradition, leisure and gastronomy in a unique environment of Spanish heritage.

One of the largest Medieval Markets in Spain

Orihuela's grand fair tradition harks back to 1272, when King Alfonso X granted the city the privilege of holding an annual fair.

At the end of the 13th century, Ferdinand IV moved this celebration to All Saints Day, consolidating a commercial and social custom from the Middle Ages that continues to this day.

Today's Medieval Market maintains that historical spirit and adapts it to the present, becoming one of the most anticipated events in Orihuela's cultural calendar, a powerful tourist attraction for the entire Vega Baja region, and drawing visitors from other parts of Spain.

Live the history of the Medieval Market in Orihuela

Over the weekend, locals and visitors can immerse themselves in a vibrant and meticulously curated atmosphere, with activities designed for all audiences.

Live shows take place over the three-day event, with medieval music, dances, street theatre, puppet shows and constant entertainment that runs through the market from end to end.

Traditional crafts workshops encompass the arts of blacksmithing, pottery, ceramics, and weaving – and live artisan demonstrations showcase ancestral techniques.

More than 300 stalls will be on hand offering jewelry, leather goods, incense, spices, textiles, traditional wooden toys, and handmade, locally produced goods.

A family-friendly event that attracts thousands

Falconry displays and exotic animals are part of the experience, with a children's area and family activities enabling younger participants to experience their special trip to the past.

Medieval and local gastronomy plays a special part at the annual event, with grilled meats, sweets typical of the era, breads, cheeses, and taverns where you can replenish your energy.

The Medieval Market in Orihuela takes place from Friday 30th January until Sunday 1st February 2026. Find out more from the official social channel on Facebook.

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Photo credit: Orihuela Turística / LaZenia.com

Spain is renowned for its vibrant and captivating festivals that bring communities together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage, and Orihuela's Moors and Christians Festival is certainly no different.

The festival dates back centuries and showcases the local Orihuela region's diverse history through colourful parades, striking costumes, and dramatic re-enactments.

Deeply rooted in the city's historical past, the Moors and Christians Festival tells the story of the struggles and triumphs of different civilizations.

The event commemorates the reconquest of the city by Christian forces from the Moors in the 13th century, a pivotal moment in Spanish history. It symbolises the coexistence and harmony that eventually emerged between these two cultural groups.

Dramatic fights and historic re-enactments

At the heart of the festival are the vibrant parades that wind through the streets of Orihuela, captivating spectators with their dazzling display of colours and intricate costumes.

Participants dress as either Moors or Christians, adorned in elaborate garments and armour, often passed down through generations. The meticulous attention to detail in the costumes, from regal tunics to shimmering headpieces, is truly breathtaking.

The Moors and Christians festival in Orihuela goes beyond mere pageantry. It features gripping re-enactments of historical events that transport onlookers back in time.

Battle scenes are staged, depicting the clash between opposing sides, complete with thunderous cannon fire and intense sword fights.

These realistic performances pay homage to the courage and valour of the Moors and Christians while engaging the audience with the sheer spectacle.

The Moors and Christians Festival in Orihuela

No festival in Spain is complete without music and dance, and the Moors and Christians Festival in Orihuela is no exception. Traditional music fills the air as marching bands accompany the parades, enhancing the ambiance and adding to the excitement.

Locals and visitors alike can revel in the rhythms and melodies, immersing themselves in the enchanting sounds of Spanish folklore.

In addition to the visual and auditory feast, the festival in Orihuela tantalises the taste buds with an array of delectable Spanish cuisine.

Traditional dishes such as paella, tapas, and local specialties are readily available, allowing visitors to indulge in the flavours of the region while immersing themselves in the festivities.

Food stalls in the streets and local Spanish restaurants throughout the city offer a diverse range of culinary delights to suit every palate.

Free “Festibus” bus service from Orihuela Costa

Organised by the Department of Tourism, a free “Festibus” service will allow attendees to watch the magnificent parades of the Moorish and Christian factions of the Reconquest Festival.

The free return bus service operates on the evenings of Friday 14th and Saturday 15th July 2023. The bus departs adjacent to the Town Hall in Playa Flamenca at 17:00, makes a pick-up stop at Entre Naranjos, before heading to the city of Orihuela. The return service leaves Orihuela at 01:00 once the parades have finished.

Local taxi services operate 24-hours a day in Orihuela Costa. Pre-booking a taxi is advised for festival-goer's who do not live in the vicinity of the return drop-off point in Orihuela Costa. Find a list of local taxi services here.

For more information about the Moors and Christians parades, the history behind the event, and full details of the festival schedule, visit the official Orihuela Turistica website.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: Orihuela Turistica

The local fair takes place each year, with traditional Spanish folk music, spectacular Sevillanas dancing performances, and a diverse assortment of gastronomic treats served under marquees (casetas) specially erected for the festival.

Immensely popular with the local community, this year's event was postponed for two weeks for administrative reasons, and City Hall has spent €145,000 to ensure that the celebrations are an overwhelming success.

The Torrevieja Sevillanas cultural programme was announced earlier this week, but contractors have been preparing the fairground adjacent to the port for the last fortnight.

In addition, musicians, singers, and dancers wishing to participate in the event have been rigorously auditioned to ensure they meet the Council's high standards for quality, artistic merit and public demand.

Traditional fiestas, music, dancing, and food in the city centre

The fair is organised by Town Hall in association with local businesses, and the Council have been keen to promote the Fiesta to both residents and visitors to the Costa Blanca destination.

The Torrevieja Sevillanas fair starts at 20:30 this Wednesday, with the inaugural ceremony, a fireworks display, and live performances from the QK Dance Academy and María Gracia.

Twenty-eight speciality food marquees will fill Torrevieja's port area once again this year, with each marquee serving distinctive Spanish food from the region and further afield.

Sevillanas Fair event highlights include feature performances by Manu Tenorio on Saturday, with Raya Real taking to centre stage to close out the event on Sunday evening.

A mass will be held on Saturday, with a religious performance from Torrevieja's House of Andalusia Choir, followed by a street parade to the fairground, and displays from some of Spain´s most majestic classical dressage horses.

Torrevieja Sevillanas Fair, Wednesday 29th May to Sunday 2nd June 2019

Horses play an integral part in the local fiesta with displays from horses and riders throughout the five-day event, and horse and carriage rides through the streets of the city from midday on Sunday.

The Torrevieja Sevillanas Fair concludes on Sunday evening, 2nd June, with a packed schedule of live entertainment from 21:30, including the awarding of prizes for the Sevillanas contestants and a dance performance from the Dharma Dance School.

The fiesta takes place in the port area and promises to fill the city of Torrevieja with the sounds of traditional Sevillanas music. It's a cultural spectacle not to be missed.

Entry to the event is free, and you can find out more about the Torrevieja Sevillanas Fair by visiting the official tourist board website.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: LaZenia.com