One of Torrevieja’s biggest events of the year, its Patronal Fiestas celebrating the town’s patron saint, will take place as usual in December but with a very much reduced programme of events.
The patronal fiestas are a staple of the winter calendar and honour the patron saint of Torrevieja, La Purísima Concepción.
The programme of events was revealed by Councilor for Fiestas, Concha Sala, alongside parish priest Manuel Martínez. Most of the traditional, larger events will not take place this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic – the customary procession, the floral offering at the door of the church nor the incredibly popular paella contest. The concerts which usually take place on stage at Plaza de la Constitución and the children’s entertainment cannot go ahead either.
Councillor Sala announced that most of Torrevieja’s primary schools will host, with all health security measures in place, the visit of La Charamita, with Lily, the Wolf and the Ogre and her troupe of big heads.
The inauguration of the Municipal Nativity Scene on Plaza de la Constitución takes place on November 28 and, on November 29, the opening of the Christmas booths of local NGOs will also take place in the square. On the 29th, the Christmas tree donated annually by the Nordic Community will be lit in Plaza de la Constitución.
As the traditional children’s events will not take place, two shows will be staged at the Municipal Theatre instead – Frozen, on December 4th, and a circus show on December 5th.
The actual feast day of the patron saint is December 8th and on this day, the main church in town will be open for 12 hours with six masses spread throughout the day to avoid overcrowding. Mass times are: 9, 10, 11, 12, 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. After the last mass the vocal group Sette Voci will offer a “Serenade to La Purísima”.