By Santiago Carneri
Copyright euroweeklynews
Altea is preparing to celebrate its Major and Patron Saint festivities. These events, declared of Regional Tourist Interest, will run from 26 to 30 September.
“The festival unites the devotional side, represented by the Comisión del Stmo. Cristo del Sagrario, with the associative and collaborative spirit of the ‘filaes’ of the Federació de Moros i Cristians,” explained Joaquim Devesa, councillor for festivities. He added that the celebrations, recognised two years ago for their tourist appeal, are also considered Intangible Local Heritage. “While the September festivals once marked agricultural or maritime cycles, today they celebrate tourism. Yet the authenticity of each religious and festive expression remains, capturing the spirit of Altea, community, friendship and joy,” Devesa said.
The programme began on Wednesday 17 September with the Novenario in honour of Cristo del Sagrario, continuing until Thursday 25 September. Highlights include the Presentation of Traditional Dress on Saturday 20 at 20:00 in the Ciutat Esportiva and the Flower Offering to the Virgin del Consuelo on Sunday 21, beginning at 11:00 from the Town Hall, followed by Mass at 12:00.
Official launch
Official festivities kick off on Friday 26 with the Entrada de la Murta at 18:30 and the Band Parade and flag ceremony at 20:00, followed by this year’s festival proclamation by Miguel Lledó Gundín. Saturday 27 features the Moorish and Christian parades, with the Embajada Mora and Rendición Cristiana at 11:30 and the Christian parade at 20:00. Sunday 28 focuses on Cristo del Sagrario, including a Solemn Procession at 20:00 and a grand fireworks display at 00:30.
The festivities continue with parades, Masses, concerts, and family events until Tuesday 30, when the flags are returned to the Cassal Fester, marking the conclusion of the celebrations for nearly 2,000 participants. Post-festival events include musical performances, “Correbars” and sports matches from 1 to 5 October.
With this extensive programme catering to all ages, the Comisión de Fiestas del Stmo. Cristo del Sagrario, the Federació de Moros i Cristians, and Altea council invite everyone to join in and wish the community happy festivities.
