Traditional Festivities in Honour of Virgen del Carmen Begin in Torrevieja

This weekend marks the start of Torrevieja’s annual homage to the Virgen del Carmen, patron saint of fishermen, with events extending from Saturday, 12 July, through Wednesday, 16 July. Known for its maritime traditions, the celebration retains its deep-rooted religious spirit even as the usual sea procession is suspended due to ongoing harbour works.

Festivities opened in the morning with activities tailored for families at the Lonja de Pescado, including children’s entertainment and a solidarity luncheon to benefit ALPE and APANEE. That same evening, a solemn mass took place at the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, during which floral tributes were laid in memory of lost fishermen. This was followed by a musical tribute led by the local choir and the Unión Musical Torrevejense, culminating at the Monument to the Man of the Sea with the moving Salve Marinera chant.

On Tuesday, 15 July, the scene shifts to conviviality at the paella contest in the Lonja, accompanied by live music from the charanga Los Sulfamidas. Prizes will be awarded to the contest winners, blending culinary tradition with festive camaraderie.

Wednesday, the 16th, will begin with a traditional street diana—a musical wake-up call—led by local bands at 08:00. This will be followed by the exciting maritime challenge of the cucaña on the port: brave participants will attempt to walk a greased pole in pursuit of a flag flapping at its end. The evening ceremony returns to the Church of the Immaculate Conception with a high mass, again accompanied by the José Hódar choir, and culminates in a land-based procession through the city centre, including stops at significant landmarks like Paseo Vista Alegre. The day closes with a fireworks display as the procession returns the image of the Virgen to her church.

While this year’s celebration lacks the customary sea procession, organisers emphasise that safety considerations due to port construction make this necessary. Nevertheless, the event remains a deeply meaningful gathering, honouring the town’s maritime heritage and bringing together residents and visitors in shared devotion.