San Miguel

The San Miguel Festival is celebrated in La Ermita, a hamlet of La Vila, on the weekend closest to September 29. These are the oldest festivals in La Vila Joiosa and the region, dating back to the 16th century, when, in December 1533, King Charles V granted the municipality permission to hold an annual market and fair in perpetuity from San Miguel to All Saints’ Day.

This royal charter was important for La Vila because it allowed for the sale of agricultural products, whose harvests end in late September, coinciding with the feast day of the town’s patron saint, Saint Michael. Years later, the saint would share patronage of the city with Saint Martha, after she interceded to avert a Saracen attack—an event whose reenactment gave rise to the Moors and Christians festival.

Despite the importance of the San Miguel fair, the festivities in honor of Santa Marta drew a larger crowd, pushing the patron saint into second place. Even so, these are traditional patron saint festivities that bring together a large number of local residents. They are a must-attend annual event for anyone who wants to enjoy a fun and special atmosphere.

The San Miguel Festival features an extensive program of events, including the following highlights:

-The traditional “Vaqueta.” Every afternoon, young heifers are released into a bullring set up for the occasion, which is attended by many local residents.

-“The Kings' Rugs.” On Friday night, the Moors and Christians groups whose members will hold the title of king next year are hosting a fundraiser featuring traditional tapas and music. It is one of the most well-attended events of the festival, during which more than 15,000 tapas are served.

-All-i-oli Contest and Paella Contest. A great atmosphere, even for those not competing

-Correfocs, concerts, children's games, a procession, hot chocolate, fireworks, a fair…

A festival steeped in tradition that marks the end of summer in this town on the Costa Blanca.