Festivals in Benissa
Discover the main festivals and traditions of Benissa, between the historic centre of the Marina Alta and its Mediterranean coast.
Local festivals in Benissa
The Puríssima Xiqueta patronal festivities are usually celebrated over several days around the fourth Sunday in April. The basilica, Plaça Rei Jaume I and Passeig Joaquín Piera i Mariana Torres host an opening speech, parades, bands, hymns, mascletaes, offerings and a procession. The Baixada lowers the patron's reliquary onto its processional platform, while festers, clavarieses, mayorals, Coral Benissenca, musicians, the parish and residents sustain the celebration.
Moors and Christians
On the weekend nearest 29 June, the festivities in honour of Sant Pere last several days and transform the historic centre. Moorish and Christian filaes, captaincies, embassies, entrances, parades, music, fireworks and offerings move through Plaça de l'Ajuntament, Avinguda País Valencià and Plaça Rei Jaume I with the involvement of the festival association, bands, traders, families and visitors.
Other celebrations: Fira i Porrat de Sant Antoni
In January, Fira i Porrat de Sant Antoni extends over several weekends through Benissa's streets and cultural venues. The market, Sant Antoni traditions, food gatherings, exhibitions and activities by associations and traders turn the fair into a meeting point for craftspeople, producers, cultural groups and residents.