ALCOY. AN ENCOUNTER WHIT THE FIESTA

Alcoy's festival cycle includes an annual showing of the Moors and Christians that takes place every 22nd, 23rd and 24th April in Saint George's honour, the local patron saint. The fiesta, considered to be of International Tourist Interest (officially recognised as such), commemorates the historical events that occurred in the 13th century. It revives medieval battles with spectacular parades that resemble a theatre play, bright-coloured costumes, music of the typical marchas and pasodobles, gunpowder burnt by blunderbusses and harquebuses, religious significance, and an additional mixture of cordiality and happiness which makes this fiesta one of the city's most beloved hallmarks.

Living through Christmas in Alcoy is a special experience. El Betlem de Tirisiti (Tirisiti's Crèche) is a puppet theatre show whose plot includes scenes mixing habits and festival customs from the early 20th century Alcoy. The major attraction is, beyond doubt, La Cabalgata de Reyes (The Three Wise Men Parade). It is the oldest of its kind among the ones held in Spain. It takes place on 5th January. The parade has a great dignity and an emotive nature because it includes torch carriers, brass bands and mainly pajes negros (people disguised as black pages) who reach balconies by means of long wooden ladders and give out parcels containing toys and presents for children.

The Three Wise Men Parade

The gathering at he local mountain shrine of La Font Roja (The Red Fountain) in the honour of our patron La Virgen de los Lirios (The Virgin of the Lilies) is held every 3rd Sunday in September.

Font Roja (The Red Fountain)