Fallas Festival in Calp

Next Saturday 28 January, 2012 will be held in Calpe the presentation  of the Falleras (Fallas Fiestas Queens) of 2012 in the auditorium of the  “Jaume Pastor i Fluixà” Casa de Cultura of Calpe at 19:00 hours.

This act opens the Calpe Fiestas season of  2012  and is considered the official kick-off of Fallas (Fire Fest), which  will be held from this year  16 to 19 May.

The “Calp Vell” Fallas organization committee will be on charge of the organization of this event after a particularly special 2011 Fallas organization with a

fabulous monument located in the Constitution Square. Tha monument was called “Sistemas” and was a product of the effort and imagination of Fallas artist Fran Fallas Santonja.

In addition the “Calp Vell” committee  is organizing the events for Saint Joseph day (19 March), including the “Awakening” party with fire crackers and parades, marching bands, the “Sardinà” (sardine barbecue served with sangria), a giant paella and a Mass in honor to the saint.

In early March we will inform you the complete program of 2012’s Fallas Fiesta in Calpe.

Fiestas in Benissa

The Fair continues in Benissa for the entire month of January and we bring you all the relevant information about the activities taking place during the next few days of celebration and events.

Saturday 21

17.00 h. “Climbing Wall” and “Stairway to the Tibetan Bridge” at the Sr. Joaquín Piera y Sra. Mariana Torres roundabout. Event organized by: Grup de Muntanya Margalló .

20.30 h.: Choir Groups meeting. At the Centre d’Art Taller d’Ivars. Event organized by: Coral Benissenca and Town’s Department of Culture.

Sunday 22

9.30 h.: XXIII International Chess Open.  At the Centre d’Art Taller d’Ivars. Organized by Benissa’s  Chess Club.

10.00 h.:  Exhibition of vehicles, tools and equipment, motorcycles and agricultural machinery and Bicycle ride Day.  Event held at at the Sr. Joaquín Piera y Sra. Mariana Torres roundabout.  Organized by Benissa Cycling Club.

10.00 h.: Meeting of horses and tumbrils  at the parking lot of Manuel Bru School

10:30 h.: “Climbing Wall” and “Stairway to the Tibetan Bridge” at the Sr. Joaquín Piera y Sra. Mariana Torres roundabout.

11:00 h.: Philatelic street market at Purissima Street organized by the Philatelic and Numismatic Association

12:00 h.: Tasting of typical products and Paella cooking contest at Sr. Joaquín Piera y Sra. Mariana Torres roundabout.

12:00 h.: Animal blessing at Portal Square (Across from City Hall)

12:00 h.: Wine tasting and tapas at Placeta Vella and  Fco Sendra Street.

12.30 h.: Horses and carriages parade, and after that Pet Parade.

13.00 h.: Blessing of animals at the front door of the Church

16.00 h.: Trained pigeons competition, children’s category.

16.30 h.: Workshop on philately and auction of stamps, coins and postcards at Purissima Street. Organizers: Philatelic and Numismatic Association.

Calpe Fiestas 2012

Today we bring you the information we have so far about the dates of Calpe’s Fiestas in 2012, according to the data provided by the tourist information office in Calpe.

Fiestas in Calpe List in 2012:

- 18 February: Carnival.

- 25 and 26 February: Day of Andalusia.

- 25 and 26 February: International Folklore Festival- German Carnival.

- 9 March: Christ of March.

- 16 to 19 March: Fallas Fiesta (feast of fire) in Calpe.

- 30 March: Good Friday.

- 1 April: Palm Sunday.

- 5 to 9 April: Holy Week in Calpe.

- 27 to 29 April: Moors and Christians Festival

- 5 to 6 May: Fiesta de la Cruz de Mayo.

- 23 June: Night of San Juan at Playa Arenal Bol

- 22 to 24 June: Bonfires of San Juan at  La Cometa

- 5 to 8 July: Andalusian Fair in Calpe.

- 16 July: Our Lady of Calpe, the patron saint of fishermen.

- 3 to 12 August: Festivities in Calpe in honor of the Virgen de las Nieves.

- 13 to 16 September: Virgen del Rocio Pilgrimage.

- 24 September: Our Lady of Mercy.

- 7 October: Pilgrimage of San Francisco.

- 9 October: Day of Valencia Region

- 19 to 22 October: Festivities in honor of the Holy Christ Sweat and Moors and Christians in Calpe.

- 24 October to 4 November: Oktoberfest in Calpe.

- 1 November: Feast of All Saints.

- 10 November: Day of the Quintadas in Calpe.

- 6 December: Day of the Constitution.

- 8 December: Day of the Immaculate Conception.

- 25 December: Christmas.

Each month we will be expanding the information of events and adding other festivities out of the regular schedule that could take place in Calpe or nearby towns.

Benissa's Fira i Porrat

Here we bring you the program of Benissa’s  ”Fira Sant Antoni i Porrat 2012″ Fair , where you can find a lot of different events for the whole family.

Friday 13

19.00 h.: “Vine Pruning Workshop”, by Jaume X. Soler.

Venue: University building Assembly Hall.

Organized by: Department of the Environment.

20.00 h.:  Opening of the painting exhibition: “Vistes d’Espanya i altres / Vistes of Spain and others” by Rosana Picornell and Maria Buckingham.

Venue: University building Exhibition Hall

20.00 h.: Lecture “Introduction to Aiurveda”

Venue: Casal d’Associacions.

Organized by: Department of Consumer Affairs.

Tuesday 17

17.00 h.: Bilingual Poetry Workshop: A monthly workshop for Those Interested in reading and writing contemporary poetry in’ Spanish and English.

Venue: University building

20.00 h. Opera in Cinema.Title: “Turandot” by Giacomo Puccini.

Venue: University building Assembly Hall.

Friday 20

18.30 h. Official Opening of the Exhibition.

During the days the Fair will run,  the following events (until 26 January), will be amusing everyone:

- Wine-Tunnel. Wine and tapas tasting in the Placeta Vella and Fco Sendra Street. Organizers: Puríssima Xiqueta Fiesta Committee.

- Craft fair at Purissima St.

- Market-exhibition of new vehicles, equipment and motorcycles at Nou and Sant Pere streets, Paseo Dolores Piera and  Jaume I Square.

- Exhibition: “Crafts Workshop: Retrieving old traditions” at Pais Valencia Avenue 97, (Pasaje Taller d’Ivars).

- Exhibition of “Kribi Heral” I finalist of the Salvador Soria Painting Contest 2011. Workshop Showroom d’Ivars. Venue:Taller d’Ivars exhibition hall . Open until 12 February.

Moors and Christians in Calpe

Below we bring you the agenda of upcoming fiesta of  Moors and Christians 2011 in the town of Calpe. This year the festivities begins on Friday 21 October  and will run until Tuesday 25 October.

Friday 21 October

13:00 h. Bells toll and fire crackers.

19:30 h. marching band parade.

20:30 h. great opening of the fiesta, flags hoisting, parade and offering of candles.

24:00 h. parade and reenactments

01:00 h. Dance of the Flag Bearer of the Association at the Plaça del Mosquit.

Saturday 22 October

11:30 h. Concentration in City Hall.

12:00 h..Mass in the Plaza Mayor fire crackers show and procession with the Holy Christ statue to the church

19:30 h. Concentration in City Hall.

20:00 h. solemn procession and firework show at the Plaza Mayor.

24:00 h..Ball organized by the Christian Side in the Plaza San Salvador.

Sunday 23 October

19:00 h. Parade with the entry of Christian and Moor sides

1:00 h. parade and reenactments

01:30 h. Ball organized by the Moor Side.

Monday 24 October

11:00 h. Landing and the first battle reenactment .

18:00 h. Children’s Parade.

21:00 h. Speech, 2nd Battle and “Miracle”

Tuesday 25 October

20:00 h. Mass for the Dead

Oktoberfest 2011 in Calpe

Everything is ready in Calpe for the 2011 Oktoberfest Beer Festival. This year’s Oktoberfest in Calpe will be held from 6 to 16 October in the tent located behind the Tennis Club (15.000 m2 tent in the Partida Gargasindi).

Below there is the full schedule released by Carnaval Club Calpe -organizers of this fantastic party in Calpe- to keep yourself informed about all the planned events, among which you can find Paulaner beer drinking and German  typical disheseating :

Thursday 06-10-2011 at 20:00 h: Great inauguration, opening of a Palauner keg by the town mayor, 2010 Festivity Queen’s farewell and coronation of Queen of Oktoberfest 2011.

Friday 07-10-2011: Classic drinking music and beer mugs rising contest

Saturday 08-10-2011:  Steinsberger oldie night with classic music of the years 70’s, 80’s and 90’s and Night Fever Party with “Steinsberg Partyexpress.”

Sunday 09-10-2011 at 11:00 h: Apperitive and “New Orleans Hot Dogs” jazz band concert and later that day Andy-Zicke Zacke Heu Heu.

Monday 10-10-2011: Music with the performance of Steinsberg and Doris and Bernd.

Tuesday 11-10-2011: Nostalgia show with music of the past 20 years with Dori, Cherilyn and Steinsbergem.

Wednesday 12-10-2011: Snacks at 11:00 h with live country music and evening performance of Steinsberg and sawing logs contest.

Thursday 13-10-2011: Nonstop party with Steinsberg, and “Oldies but Goldies” show with Doris and Cherilyn.

Friday 14-10-2011: More beer and food, live music with Steinsberg and a new edition of the log sawing contest.

Saturday 15-10-2011: Party with Steinsberg music from the 70’s to contemporary acts.

Sunday 16-10-2011: Paella contest and nonstop music until the end of the party.

Oktoberfest at Calpe

The schedule is already for the 2011 Oktoberfest Calpe organized by the Carnival Club Calpe. This year the beer festival begins on 6 October and ends on 16 October, 2011. This festivity wil take place at the Oktoberfest tent behind the Tennis Club of Calpe.

We will be informing about all the actions that the Carnival Calpe Club has prepared to celebrate the 2011Oktoberfest Calpe, which already has over 30 years of life and each year manages to gather a crowd from both the surrounding municipalities and the rest of Europe.

Next year, the Oktoberfest will change their dates of celebration to the last week of October and take advantage of dates where there is no other event or festival in the municipality. This decision stems from an agreement among members of the Carnival Calpe Club and local hotels and restaurants, preventing convergence of several fiestas and events in the municipality during the same period and, in this way, extend the tourist season during the early autumn and not coincide with the October bank holiday. Most of the Calpe’s stores and restaurants are  helping to promote the event in its stores. 

Virgin of El Rocío festival

From 8 to 11 September, the town of Calpe will celebrate the XI Pilgrimage of the Virgen del Rocio. This festivity is an established activity in the municipality that is organized with the collaboration of the Casa de Andalucía (Andalusia House) Association of Calpe. Check below the program with the most remarkable activities in the framework of the pilgrimage.

Thursday 8 September, 20:00 h: tents assembly and preparation of Pilgrimage in the La Cometa Hermitage in Calpe. Later there will be a “bring your own meal” dinner.

Friday 9 September at 21:00 h:  Comedy Night featuring local performers of the House of Andalusia and then (around 22:00 h) a Night of Sevillanas and Rumbas Music and dance with the traditional singing of Salve Rociera –hail Virgin of the Rocío.

Saturday 10 September at 17:00 h: Gathering of pilgrims in the Hermitage of San Salvador with carriages and horses in San Isidro Street (by the hermitage hill). At 20:30 h there will be a horses riding and dressage exhibition. Later,
at 22:00 flamenco performance by the “Esencia Flamenca” and “Zambra” groups at the Andalusia House of Calpe. Finally, the musical night will end with “Géminis” musical band performance at 22:30.

Sunday 11 September at 09:00 h: Pilgrims waking and proclamation by Antonia Mª Avargues Pastor. At 13.00 h. the  Holy
Mass will be sung by the “Sentimiento Andaluz” Rociero Choir and at 14:00h everybody is invited to an Andalusian stew.

Do not miss this chance to enjoy the soul, singing, dancing and Andalusian traditions in Calpe.

I Barceló Rum Latin Party in Calpe

The I Barceló Rum Latin fiesta in Calpe is taking place this Sunday 14th August at 22:30 h, at indoors area of the Calpe sports centre —address: Valle de L’Aguart Ave.

This party organized by the 2012 fiestas commission of Calpe aims to raise funds for the fiestas in Calpe in 2012.

If you want to attend the party, get your tickets. They started selling them on August 1^st. Admission costs €6 when bought in advance and € 8 at the moment of the event in the Sports Centre. The ticket is valid for a drink.

In the party, there will be Barceló Rum giveaways and tickets valid for a meal and admission to the wellness centre of S/H Hotel in Calpe. Habano, a Cuban music band with 6 talented musicians and 2 DJ, Ramón from Valencia and David from Calpe, will be bringing their live music to the party.

There will be various shows by talented music school groups, on different Latin styles: Salsa School Spain (Benidorm), Ritmo Latino (Calpe), Los Amigos de la Salsa (Jalón), Salsa en Calpe (Calpe) and Salsa s’alça (Gandia).

For additional information, send an e-mail to comisionfiestascalp2012@gm​ail.com. This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy Latin rhythms in Calpe, dance, get fantastic prizes and contribute with the 2012 fiestas commission of Calpe.

Saint Mary Major

In next few days in Calpe, the FIESTA takes over town: the Dedication of Saint Mary Major —Fiesta de la Virgen de las Nieves— started on Wednesday 27th July and will last until Saturday 13th August.

These are the most relevant events taking place during this festival in Calpe:

The lighting of the streets and the “Cridà a la Festa” (opening speech of the festival) will be held today, Monday 1^st of August at 21:30 h, from the terrace of the Town Hall. At 00:00 h, there will be a street party at Plaza Mayor Square.

On Tuesday 2^nd August there will be a puppet show and workshops for kids at 18:00 h. At about 21:30 h, there will be a parade along the streets of Calpe, and at 00:00 h, the Mítica Orchestra will be playing at Plaza Mayor Square.

On Wednesday 3^rd August at 19:30 h, the “Legends” Disney musical for kids will be held. At 23:30 h it will be the turn of “Los 40”, the musical, with modern music. The show will close with the Waka Orchestra.

On Thursday, 4^th August at 20:00 h, there will be a Holy Mass and a Flowers offering for Saint Mary Major. At 22:30 h, there will be a duel between the Valparaíso and Pirata orchestras.

Friday, 5^th August at 12:00 h: Mass on the Ntra. Sra. Virgen de las Nieves church and firecrackers show. In the afternoon, at 20:30 h, procession and at 01:00 h of the next day (technically), show by the Mundo orchestra.

Saturday, 6^th Augusta at 00:00 h: mascletada —firecrackers show— at Plaza Mayor Square, followed by street party with foam.

Sunday, 7^th August: Bull-related events start on this date, with a schedule of bullfighting sessions at different times, so that everybody can attend. At 12:00 h, entrance of bulls into the bull ring —event for kids— and “embolado” bull (with horns set on fire). In the afternoon, great cavalcade on fancy dresses and bulls from 00:00 h to 03:30 h.

From Monday, 8^th August, to Saturday, 13^th August, there will be more bull-related events in Calpe: bullfighting from 19:30 h to 22:00 h and at night, from 00:00 h to 03:00 h there will be running with cows, releases of bulls on the streets, running with bulls and bulls with horns on fire —embolados.

Anyone attending these events should note that the embolado bulls will be running in Calpe on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 02:30 h to 03:30 h.

It is going to be 16 party days with music shows, fireworks, musicals, parades, cavalcades, bulls, religious feasts, etc; something for everyone in Calpe during August 2011.

Live music at Xirinbala

July is a great month to discover and enjoy Benissa, a town in Spain’s Costa Blanca north. This place filled with history has a beautiful historic city centre, a breathtaking coast and an unparalleled calendar of cultural activities in July 2011.

-          La Mar de Cine —we would call it “an ocean of films” in English: Season of outdoor film screenings at Fustera beach every Thursday at 22:00 h. Free admission. These will be the screened films in July (all of them with audio in Spanish): You will meet a tall dark stranger (14^th July), 3 metros sobre el cielo (21^st July) and Tangled (28th July).

-          III Tapas Crawl Benissa, from 8^th to 31^st July, Monday through Friday. On Fridays, the Sifasol music band will play. Tapa + drink: €2. These are the participating bars and resturants: bar Restaurante Tapas Vizcaino, Restaurante Casa Eusebio, bar Trinquet, Pizzería L’Orenga, Cervecería Restaurante Bon Gust, bar La Xarradeta, Fusión bar, bar Los Faroles, bar Restaurante El Rebost, bar La Picaeta, Cafetería Pastelería Plaça 5 Dolç i Salat, El Nou Chaplin, bar Cafetería L’Esplai, Café Tropic, Heladería La Jijonenca.

-          Xirimbala kiosk’s summer nights at Baladrar cove. It is located on the Moraira-Calp road. This is one of the most typical, authentic and special corners on the coast. It is perfect to enjoy a good breakfast by the sea, listen to live music on Mondays night, have an Argentinian BBQ on Thursdays night, broiled sardines on Fridays night, tapas menus, full moon parties, etc. Chek out their website here.

-          Bloc and street parties in Benissa: There is a party almost every weekend:

• Partida Pedramala, 15^th to 17^th July.
• Party at Benimarco, at partida San Jaime, from 23^rd to 29^th July.
• Party at Santa Ana, on Tuesady 26^th July.
• Party at Lleus from 29th to 31st July.

This is a great month to discover Benissa, a very special town in Costa Blanca north with a popular kitchen, a coast with dream coves and a cosmopolitan and medieval historic city centre, all this mixed with a comprehensive calendar of cultural, leisurely and food events and activities.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Virgen del Carmen —Our Lady of Mount Carmel— is the patron saint of the sea, the fishermen and the Spanish Army. Every 16^th July, many places in Spain and the rest of the world celebrate this day with joy.

This feast takes place since 1940 in Calpe, where the Brotherhood of Fishermen is responsible for the organization of all the traditional acts taking place every 16^th July.

The schedule of events does not change much year after year, given the traditional nature of the feast:

Parade with the music band.

The parade will end with a flowers offering.

Afterwards, the virgin will be taken out in a procession along the port.

A boat will come to the dock and wait for the virgin to arrive, will collect a beautiful flower crown and throw it to the sea as homage to the fishermen and sailors who have disappeared in the sea.

The procession ends with a fantastic fireworks show at the harbour of Calpe.

Andalusia Festival in Calpe

As every year, the traditional Casa de Andalucía brings the traditions of Andalusians closer to Calpe, with events like the Andalusian festival, again in 2011. This is the calendar of events:

7^th to 10^th July:

Setting up of the funfair in the festival area.

Thursday 7^th July:

Opening and official lighting. Time: 21:30 h.

Dance show by Casa de Andalucía dancers and the Manuela Morales dance group. Time: 22:00 h.

Friday, 8^th July:

Latin dance class by the “Salsa en Calpe” association. Time: 21:30 h.
Oriental dance show by the Casa de Andalucía dance group. Time: 22:00 h.
Costa Este band concert. Time: 22:30 h.
Almadraba band concert. Time: 23:30 h.
The party will continue afterwards, with the Costa Este band.

Saturday, 9 July:

Andalusian gazpacho tasting (cold tomato soup). Time: 14:00 h.
Great lunch at the venue, with special prices for everybody. Time: 14:30 h.
“Carmen” interpreted by “Zambra” the dance group directed by Manuela Morales. Time: 21:30 h.
Rebeca Carmona’s “Esencia Flamenca” dance group show. Time: 22:00 h.
“Geminis” dance show. Time: 22:30 h.
Rociera night, with Almadraba. Time: 23:00 h.

Sunday, 10 July:

Rebujito (traditional drink) tasting, courtesy of the Rocío Brotherhood of the Casa. Time: 14:00 h.
Lunch at special prices.  Time: 14:30 h.
Playbacks contest. Time: 20:00 h.
Dance show. Time: 21:00 h.
Show by Antonio Romero, “Romerito”. Time: 22:30 h.
As the show ends, the official closing act will take place.

The Moors and Christians Festival in Benissa

Today, we bring the whole schedule of the Moors and Christians fiesta, a traditional celebration taking place every year in many towns of the region.  This is what this fiesta awaits us in Benissa:

From 16^th June to 4^th July:
Children’s paintings exhibition at the Exhibition hall of Casal Jove.
Time: from 9:30 h to 13:30 h.

17^th June:
“La Música en la fiesta de Moros y Cristianos” (Music in the Moors and Christians fiesta) talk by Ildefonso San Cristóbal Férriz, in Spanish.
Location: la Seu Universitaria.
Time: 20:30 h.

18^th June:
Traditional fiesta music concert at Germans Ivars square, by
the Pere Bigot Colla de Xirimiters and the  “Sociedad Lírica y Musical de Benissa” (Lyric and Musical Society of Benissa).
Time: 21:00 h.

30^th June:
22:00 h.: Meeting of all the “filaes” (groups) at the castle, to later have a brotherhoods dinner.
23:30 h. Music show.

1^st July:
23:00 h.: Proclamation of standards, standard bearers, ambassadors, captains and announcement of the fiestas by Raúl Martínez Ivars.
Location: Castle.
As the proclamation and announcement finish, the Zeppelin Band Orchestra will hold a concert at Jaime I square.

2^nd July:
18:00 h: Kids’ “entrà” (entrance) and moor embassy.
13:00 h: Memorial acts for the dead “festeros” at the town’s cemetery.
18:30 h: Parade wit hall the filaes (groups) from Portal square to the church.
19:30 h: Mass to honour Saint Peter Apostle at the Parish church.
20:30 h: Kids’ “entrà” and XXI  Junior Squadron Leaders Competition.
23:30 h: Attack of the Moorish from the Convent square, and takeover of the castle.

3^rd July:
11:00 h: Parade and visit to the San Joaquín y Santa Ana elderly residence.
20:00 h: Great entrance from Valencia street to the end of Carrer Nou.

4^th July:
11:00 h: Attack of the Christians from the Portal square, and reconquering of the castle, occupied by the Moorish.
20:00 h: Parade with all the bands that took part in the fiestas.
21:00 h: Humorous parade “Fin de fiesta” (end of the fiesta).

San Juan Bonfires in Calpe

The San Juan fiestas in Calpe that started last 18th June are not only an important traditional event for the town, but also for the whole region. This is the schedule of events for the last days of the event:

Friday, 24 June
20:00 h: Flowers offering at the hermitage chapel cross.
20:30 h: Mass for Sant Joan and music show by Pedro Jaime Tur and Joaquín Roselló.

21:00 h: Dinner for all the people attending the event.
21:30 h: Final of the Fogueres 2011 poker championship.
00:00 h: Bulls night.

Saturday, 25 June
14:00 h: Plantá (setting up) of the “La Cometa 2.0” 2011 foguera (sculpture to burn)
18:00 h: Park and activities for kids.
18:30 h: Trip across Cases de Torrat with the trenet (classic train) of Calpe.
19:00 h: Second day of bullfighting.
20:00 h: Awards ceremony for the winners of the Paddle Open.
21:00 h: Dinner.
21:30 h: “Valencians de Mallorca” documentary.
00:00 h: Bullfighting night.

Sunday, 26 June
10:00 h: Bicycle route with the BTT Ifac de Calp cyclists.
13:00 h: Paellas contest and giant paella.
18:00 h: Park and activities for kids.
21:30 h: Fireworks and “Cremà” (burning) of the 2001 foguera. End of the fiesta.

San Juan Bonfire Nights

June will be an especially busy month in the whole province of Alicante and Jávea will not be far behind. The celebration of the fiestas of San Juan in the town of Jávea is recognized as a cultural and entertainment reference in all Mediterranean region.

Check below the most important activities scheduled in for this fiesta:

Friday, 17 June
16:00 h: Futsal Championship at the Sports Hall.

17:00 h: “Raspall” Semifinals in Ratchet Xàbia.
18:00 h: XVI International Festival Events (link to international festival)
22:00 h: Musical Union Catarroja and Xàbia Musical Arts Center concert in Reina Sofía Park
00:00 h: Livestock Exhibition
02:00 h: Mobile disc play party until 4:00 h. at the bullring

Saturday, 18 June
08:00 h: Wake up fiesta with music and parades
09:30 h: BBQ Lunch for everyone in the bar of the Bonfires Committee.
17:30 h: XVI International Festival Events
19:00 h: Parade from the Portal del Clot to the Constitution square
21:30 h: (BYO) Dinner and music performers at Reina Sofia Park
00:00 h: Monte Carlo orchestra at the Constitution square and Mobile disc play party until 6:00 h.

Sunday, 19 June
10:00 h: Wake up fiesta for children in the Reina Sofía Park. Then sardines and cakes for everyone.
19:00 h: Bull releases in the streets
22:00 h: Rondallas music competition at the Convent square.
02:00 h: Mobile disc play party until 4:00 h. at the bullring

Monday, 20 June
09:00 h: Bonfire installation at the Constitution square and the small square of the Convent square.
10:00 h: Darts Championship at “Fadrins borratxos i fins” in Calle Mayor.
13:30 h: Giant Paella for everyone at Montaner Park.
17:00 h:  Children Games at the Convent square.
18:00 h: Raspall Championship in Ratchet Xàbia.
18:00 h: Children’s ball in the small at the Convent square.
19:00 h: Concert by Rock Academy Javea at the Convent square.
21:30 h: (BYO) Dinner and music performers at Reina Sofia Park
23:30 h: Night of rock at the Constitution square: La Gossa Sorda and Lax’n  Bustos. Next Mobile disc play until 4:30 in the morning.

Moors and Christians in Moraira

The Moors and Christians fiesta —Moros y Cristianos— celebrated in Costa Blanca’s towns such as Teulada Moraira, Jávea or Calpe, briefly narrates a chapter of the history of Spain in a festive mood.

This is the schedule of events of the Moors and Christians fiesta in Teulada Moraira this year:

Saturday, 11 June
14:00 h: Paella contest and water fight

Sunday 12 June
19:00 h: Music Festival with Jazz, Folk, Rock and Country style artists

Monday, 13 June
18:00 h: Kids’ drawings and literary works exhibition; photography and posters exhibition, in Espai La Senieta.

Tuesday, 14 June
21:00 h: English Choir Concert at the Town Church

Wednesday, 15 June
22:30 h: Teulada Music Band concert at the Church Square

Thursday, 16 June
19:30 h: Official fiesta parade with the raising of the “Junta Central” and the “filàs” flags at the castle, with harquebuses shoots and music.
22:00 h: The flags are taken out of the castle
22.45 h: Official presentation of the standards.
At the end of the event, there will be a party with a street discotheque.

Friday, 17 June
13:00 h: Informal parade
13:30 h: Harquebuses shoots at the Castle boulevard
19:00 h: Flowers offering to honour the Holy Christ of Moraira
23:00 h: Moor conquest at L’Ampolla beach, followed by the Moor representation
Captaincy night with street discotheque

Saturday, 18 June
09:00 h: “Despertà” –Wake-up call– with harquebuses
11:00 h: Informal filàs parade
12:00 h: Mass to honour the Holy Christ of Moraira
12:30 h: Harquebuses shoots at the Castle boulevard
19:30 h: Christian reconquest at L’Ampolla beach
24:00 h: Open-air concert at the Fortí and next, Cábilas night

Sunday, 19 June
09:00 h: “Despertà” –Wake-up call– with harquebuses
11:00 h: Informal parade
11:30 h: Kids’ playground with bouncy castles at Senillar boulevard
13:30 h: Harquebuses shoots and music
18:00 h: Music bands
19:00 h: Gala parade of the Christian and Moor bands

Benissa's Church

To celebrate and honour its patron saint, Benissa starts its fiestas today.  This year, as the previous one and many more back, the fiestas last a week and this time end on 8^th May.

This is the schedule for this fiesta:

Sunday, 1st May:

8:00 h: Despertada (awakening), bell tolls, parade with marching bands and fireworks.

8:30 h: Mass.

10:00 h: Parade with festeros (fiesta people), mayorales and clavariesas, and marching bands.

11:30 h: Solemn mass and sermon to honour La Purissima Xiqueta.

14:00 h: Impressive mascletada (firecrackers show) by Vicent Caballer Pyrotechnics.

19:00 h: Prayed mass and bajada (descent) of the patron saint’s statue, accompanied by music by Pepe Ciudad, organ player. Next, solemn mass and procession to honour La Purissima Xiqueta. To finish the procession, there will be an amazing fireworks castle by Vicente Caballer pyrotechnics.

1:00 h: Music performance by El Arrebato. Then, performance by Crash Orchestra.

Monday, 2nd May:

8:00 h: Despertada (awakening), bell tolls and parade with festeros and marching bands.

8:30 h: Mass

10:00 h: Parade with festeros (fiesta people), mayorales and clavariesas, and marching bands.

11:00 h: Festeros gathering at the gates square.

11:30 h: Solemn mass and sermon to honour La Purissima Xiqueta.

13:30 h: Flowers offering by the Riberero Monument. Homage to the ribereros and proclamation by Álvaro Pérez Arlandis.

14:00 h: Mascletada (firecrackers show) by Vicent Caballer Pyrotechnics.

18:30 h: Parade with floats and music by the charangas and the Colla de xirimiters.

19:30 h: Kids show “La Festa del Rei” by the Companyia Escuraplats theatre company.

20:30 h: Prayed Mass.

0:00 h: Hail chants for the Purissima Xiqueta at the old house of Joan Vives, at Purisima St.

0:30 h: Fireworks by Vicent Caballer Pyrotechnics.

1:00 h: Performance by Salseta del Poble Sec music band.

2:00 h: Handover of the symbolic authority rod to His Excellence the Mayor of dels fadrins, Mr. Joan Bolufer Vives.

Tuesday, 3rd May:

8:30 h: Mass.

9:00 h: Despertada by the women accompanied by charangas.

10:00 h to 15:00 h: Children’s playground at the Dolors Piera Boulevard.

11:00 h: Traditional games

14:00 h: Fadrina Mascletada (firecrackers show) by Vicent Caballer Pyrotechnics.

18:30 h: Humorous parade where everybody is invited to take part, with music by the charangas.

Wednesday, 4th May:

8:30 h: Mass

11:00 h to 14:00 h: Children’s playground at the Glorieta.

16:00 h: Children’s playground after siesta.

16:30 h: Visit to the San Joaquín and Santa Ana old people’s homes to invite senior citizens to horchata and cocas (sweet bread).

18:30 h: Bulls by La Paloma Stockbreeders.

19:00 h: Letting loose of bulls by Benavent Stockbreeders.

23:30 h: Letting loose of bulls by La Paloma Stockbreeders.

Thursday, 5th May:

8:30 h: Mass

18:30 h: Entrance of Bulls by Benavent Stockbreeders.

19:00 h: Letting loose of young bulls by La Paloma Stockbreeders.

23:30 h: Letting loose of young bulls by Benavent Stockbreeders.

1:30 h: Módena Orchestra performance at German Ivars Square.

Friday, 6th May:

8:30 h: Prayed Mass.

19:00 h: Letting loose of agile young bulls by Benavent Stockbreeders.

23:00 h: Entrance of Bulls by La Paloma Stockbreeders.

23:30 h: Letting loose of young bulls by La Paloma Stockbreeders.

1:30 h: Fantastic concert by Brothers in Band —tribute to Dire Straits.

Saturday, 7th May:

8:30 h: Mass

8:30 h: Letting loose of young bulls by La Paloma Stockbreeders.

11:00 h: Entrance of the “bous the carretó” (bull-shaped cars) for kids.

12:30 h: Anyades gathering at the gates square.

14:00 h: Giant Paella cooked by Galbis and sponsored by Mas y Mas supermarket and the 2011 Fiestas Commision, to be prepared and served at the Dolors Piera Square.

16:00 h: “Discomóvil” mobile disco by Macrodisco Millenium.

17:00 h: Performance by Mangani Boys Band.

19:00 h: Letting loose of young bulls by La Paloma Stockbreeders.

20:30 h: Novena mass to honour La Purissima Xiqueta.

23:30 h: Letting loose of young bulls by La Paloma Stockbreeders.

Sunday, 8th May:

8:00 h: Despertada (awakening), bell tolls and parade.

8:30 h: Mass.

10:00 h: Festeros parade with music bands and the Colla de xirimiters.

11:00 h: Festeros and authorities gathering at the gates square.

11:30 h: Solemn mass. Chants by the Mare Nostrum Orpheon.

14:00 h: Mascletada (firecrackers show) by Vicent Caballer Pyrotechnics.

20:00 h: Dulçainas and percussion concert by Grupo La Inestable.

20:30 h: Novena mass.

22:00 h: Party with music and fireworks show, accompanied by the hymns of Benissa.

Holy Week processions in Calpe

This is the calendar of events with the days left to celebrate Holy Week in Calpe:

Spy Wednesday, 20th April:
19:30 h: Holy Mass.
21:00 h: Penitential procession. Cristo de las Tres Caídas —Three Falls Christ— Brotherhood.

Maundy Thursday, 21st April:

18:00 h: Holy Mass.
20:00 h: Last Supper’s Holy Mass, represented by the 2011 Festeros.
21:30 h: Procession of El Nazareno —Nazareth Jesus— Brotherhood.
23:00 h: Holy Hour by the monument.

Good Friday, 22^nd April:
08:00 h: Opening of the temple.
09:00 h: Via Crucis to El Salvador Hermitage Chapel.
15:00 h: Misericords Rosary saying  by the monument.
18:00 h: Passion and Death of Christ and veneration of the Cross. 20:30 h: Holy Entombment Procession (Three falls Christ, Nazareth Jesus, Holy Sepulchre and Lady of Sorrows).

To take part, please take a candle with you. If you wish to accompany the virgin, please wear back suit and/or black mantilla.

Holy Saturday, 23^rd April:
23:00 h: Easter Vigil starting at the cemetery and ending at the church.

It is important to take a candle with you. If you do not have one, there will be a small stand ran by the Fiestas Commission selling them by the entrance of the cemetery.

Easter Sunday, 24^th April:
10:00 h: Holy Mass.
11:30 h: Holy Encounter procession from the church to Plaza del Salvador Square. Verse recited by the festera —fiesta commission member— Sofía Sánchez Fernández.
12:00 h: Holy Mass.

Holy Monday, 25th April:
09:30h: Holy Mass.

This program is subject to modifications after consideration by the commission.

If you are visiting Calpe, maybe you will find this post about lodging in Calpe useful.

If you are not the religious kind, there are alterantives to the Holy Week processions, such as the Medieval street market.

Valencia Fallas and Fireworks Display

There are only 3 days left to finish the Semana Mayor of Fallas in Valencia, but the party is far from over.

Do not miss the following events in the 3 remaining days:

Friday, 18^th March:
1:00 h: Fireworks show (Caballer Pyrotechnics).
11:30 h: Bull fighting in Plaça de Bous.
12:00 h: Tribute to Maestro Serrano.
12:00 h: Tribute to the poet Maximiliano Thous.

14:00 h: Firecracker show (Caballer Pyrotechnics).
16:00 h: Flowers offering to the Virgen de los Desamparados.
17:00 h: Bull fighting: Manuel Jesus “El Cid”, Miguel Ángel Perera and Cayetano.
18:00 h: Blimp Exhibition of Ballooning School of Valencia.

Saturday, 19^th March:
1:30 h: Nit del Foc (night of fire) fireworks.
11:00 h: Offering of flowers before the image of the Patriarch.
11:30 h: Feria de Fallas: Morning on horseback.
12:00 h: Mass in Honor of the Patriarch.
14:00 h: Fire cracker show (Ricardo Caballer Pyrotechnics).
19:00 h: Street horse ride.
22:00 h: Burning of Children’s Fallas.
22:30 h: Burning of Falla who obtained the first prize in the Special Section.
23:00 h: Burning of children’s Falla at town hall square.

Sunday, 20^th March:
00:00 h: Burning of all the Fallas of Valencia.
00:30 h: Burning of the winner Falla.
1:00 h: Burning of the Town hall Falla.
11:30 h: Bull fighting morning.

Fallas Calp 2011

As it has been reported in the blogosphere, every year Fallas in Calpe gain more and more importance in the region since its inception in 1983.

If you are near Calp, do not miss the chance to enjoy the events scheduled in this celebration. Among these events we can highlight:

Wednesday, 16^th March:
16:00 h: Location of fallas monuments (plantà)
19:00 h: free hot chocolate for all attendees
21:00 h: B.Y.O Dinner and dance fiesta in the fallera tent

Thursday, 17^th March:
07:30 h: Early wake up party from Casall faller and street parade.
13:00 h: Sardines dishes and sangria for all attendees to fallas monuments.
18:00 h: Games for children.

Friday, 18^th March:
07:30 h: Early wake up and block parties.
14:00 h: Giant Paella by fallas monuments.
19:00 h: Parade of Falleras and their courts of honor.
21:00 h: Dance party and B.Y.O Dinner party at fallera tent.

Saturday, 19^th March:
07:30 h: Early wake up and party.
13:30 h: Great mascletà (fire crackers show) in the main square.
19:00 h: Fiesta in fallas tent.
23:00 h: Kids fallas burn-down.
24:00 h: Main falla burn-down.

The fallas fiestas in Valencia

If in Valencia, from today to the next weekend (Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 March) enjoy Las Fallas (Festival of Fire). Check here the most important events in the coming days:

Sunday, 13^th March

Firecracker show (Fantasia Fireworks Company)
Time: 14:00 h. Location: Town Hall Square.

Bullfight: Francisco Rivera Ordóñez “Paquirri”, El Fandi and Alejandro Talavante
Time: 17:00 h. Place: Plaça de Bous.

Monday, 14^th March

Firecracker show (El Portugués Fireworks Company)
Time: 14:00 h. Location: Town Hall Square.

Closing of the of Children sculptures Exhibition
Time: 15:00 h. Location: Town Hall Square.

Bullfight
Time: 17:00 h. Place: Plaça de Bous.

Tuesday, 15^th March

Installation of children’s sculptures
Time: 08:00 h. Location: All around the city.

Firecracker show (Pyrotechnics Valenciana)
Time: 14:00 h. Location: Town Hall Square.

Bullfight: Miguel Abellán, Juan Bautista and Leandro
Time: 17:00 h. Place: Plaça de Bous.

Valencia Fallas Bullfighting 2011

Check below for dates and venues of the bullfighting activities as part of the Fallas. The events will be held in the Plaça de Bous in the city of Valencia.

Bullfighters: Francisco Rivera Ordonez “Paquirri”, El Fandi and Alejandro Talavante (Jandilla-Vegahermosa)
Event date: 13th March

Bullfighters: Thomas Dufau, Juan del Alamo, Jesus Duque (Javier Molina)
Event date: 14th March

Bullfighters: Miguel Abellán, Juan Bautista and Leandro (Alcurrucén)
Event date: 15th March

Bullfighters:  Curro Diaz, Matias Tejela and Ruben Pinar (Source Ymbro)

Event date: 16th March

Bullfighters: Manuel Jesus “El Cid”, Miguel Ángel Perera and Cayetano (San Pelayo and San Mateo Bull farm)
Event date:  18th March

Bullfighters: Francisco Damas (Bullfighter school Valencia)  and Jonathan Varea (Bullfighter school Castellón) (The Parralejo Bull farm)
Event date:  18th March

Bullfighters: Juan Mora, Enrique Ponce and Sebastian Castella (Las Ramblas Bull farm)
Event date:  19th March

Bullfighters: Morning on horseback. Rui Fernandes, Andy Cartagena, Alvaro Montes, Sergio Galán, Leonardo Hernández and Manuel Lupi (Fermin Bohorquez Bull farm)
Event date:  19th March

Bullfighters: Rafaelillo, Tomás Sánchez and Alberto Aguilar (Adolfo Martín Bull farm)
Event date:  20th March

Bullfighters: Simón López, Miguel Giménez and Diego Silveti (Guadaira Bull farm)
Event date:  20th March

"Casting" Falla, Pediatra Jorge Comín-Senda Calderona "Nou Campanar"

These are the most important and spectacular fallas installed during the fiestas 2011, and the places they will be set:

Falla Plaza Na Jordana
Slogan: See you in hell. Artist: Manuel Martín.
Infantile slogan: What’s wrong with you? Infantile artist: Joan S. Blanch.
Location: 9 Salvador Giner Street.

Falla Convento Jerusalén-Matemático Marzal
Slogan: The hunter becomes the hunted. Artist: Pedro Santaeulalia.

Infantile slogan: The journeys of the court. Infantile artist: Miguel Santaeulalia Nuñez.
Location: 36 Convento Jerusalén St.

Falla Almirante Cadarso-Conde de Altea
Slogan: The forbidden fruit. Artist: Manuel Algarra.
Infantile slogan: The mad Maharaja. Infantile artist: José Gallego.
Location: 24 Conde Altea St.

Falla Exposición-Micer Mascó-Arévalo Baca
Slogan: At Pepito’s farm. Artist: Salvador Dolz.
Infantile slogan: The Fallera Major is… Infantile artist: Paco Gisbert.
Location: 15 Naturalista Arévalo Baca St.

Falla Cuba-Literato Azorín
Slogan: Always look on the bright side. Artist: Pere Baenas.
Infantile slogan: When the sun comes. Infantile artist: Sergio Amar.
Location: 23 Literato Azorín St.

Falla Plaza del Pilar
Slogan: A whole life. Artist: José Lafarga.
Infantile slogan: Five funny senses. Infantile artist: Paco Belmar and Antonio Pérez (First category).
Location: 30 Maldonado St.

Falla Sueca-Literato Azorín
Slogan: The plagues of the past and today. Artist: Juan Carlos Ferri.
Infantile slogan: Horoscopia and the future of the kids. Infantile artist: Javier Fernández.
Location: 49 Sueca St.

Falla Regne de Valéncia-Duc de Calàbria
Slogan: We have lost our minds! Artist: Fede Ferrer.
Infantile slogan: A blink at peace. Infantile artist: Pedro Rodríguez.
Location: 12 Duque de Calabria St.

Falla Monestir de Poblet-Aparicio Albiñana “L’Antiga”
Slogan: Bad arts. Artist: Vicente Martinez Aparici.
Infantile slogan: Evolution. Infantile artist: Oscar Villada.
Location: 1 Molino de la Marquesa St.

Pediatra Jorge Comín-Senda Calderona “Nou Campanar”
Slogan: Casting. Artist: Miguel Santaeulalia Nuñez.
Infantile slogan: My parents’ wedding… in pictures. Infantile artist: Julio Monterrubio.
Location: 3 Pediatra Jorge Comín St.

Falla Plaza la Merced
Slogan: The Musical. Artist: José Ramón Espuig.
Slogan: Passport to Julius’s Imagination. Artist: Carlos Borrás.
Location: 4-6 Aluders St.

Falla Avenida Malvarrosa – Antonio Ponz – Cavite
Slogan: A sea of spells. Artist: Juan Carlos Donet.
Slogan: Working for the fiesta. Artist: Francisco Jiménez.
Location: 92 Malvarrosa Ave.

Falla Archiduque Carlos – Chiva
Slogan: False pretences. Artist: Alberto Ribera.
Slogan: Angels or demons? Artist: Sergio Lis (Seventh Category Infantile).
Location: 34 Músico Gomis St.

Mascletàs, Valencian firecrackers show

The mascletàs —firecracker shows— are an essential part of the Fallas and the identity of Valencians. Gun powder and fire are deep within Valencia and its people.

Throughout the year, the pyrotechnic groups design and plan their mascletàs and castells —visual fireworks— for these fiestas.

Just as we did last year, we bring you the Schedule of firecrackers shows that are part of Falles de Valencia 2011:

5th February: Mascletà to open the Ninot Exhibition 2011 by Gori  Pyrotechnics.

27^th February (despertà day): First official mascletà to start the season of Fallas 2001, by Valenciana Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

1st March: Mascletà by Peñarroja Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

2nd March: Mascletà by Aitana Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

3^rd March: Mascletà by Hermanos Ferrández Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

4th March: Mascletà by Caballer FX Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

5th March: Mascletà by Maria Angustias Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h. Great Neapolitan Aerial Mascletà by Romualdo Parente Pyrotechnics at Las Arenas beach at 18:00 h and colourful mascletà  by El Portugués Pyrotechnics while on the Cabalgata del Ninot —Ninot cavalcade— at 22:30 h.

6th March: Mini mascletà by Caballer Pyrotechnics at Carmen Square, at 11:00 h. Mascletà by Gori Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h. Colourful mascletà by Gori Pyrotechnics while on the infantile Ninot Cavalcade at 17:30 h.

7th March: Mascletà by Benlloch Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

8^th March: Mascletà by Martí Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

9^th March: Mascletà by Zarzoso Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

10^th March: Mascletà by Borreda Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

11th March: Mascletà by Tomas Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

12^th March: Mascletà by Hermanos Caballer Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h. Mascletà by Benlloch Pyrotechnics at the folklore cavalcade, at 23:00 h.

13rd March: Mascletà by Pirofantasía Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

14th March: Mascletà by El Portugués Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h.

15th March: Mascletà by Valenciana Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h. Castells de Foc —fireworks castle— by Turis Pyrotechnics at 00:00 h at the old banks of the Turia river.

16th March: Mascletà by Turis Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h. Castells de Foc —fireworks castle— by Focs d’Artifici Europlá Pyrotechnics at 01:00 h at the old banks of the Turia river.

17th March: Mascletà by Focs d’Artifici Europlá Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h. Castells de Foc —fireworks castle— by Caballer Pyrotechnics at 01:00 h at the old banks of the Turia river.

18th March: Traca —firecrackers— by Valenciana Pyrotechnics at 11:00 h to honour Maximiliano Thous and mascletà at 12:00 h to honour Maestro Serrano. Mascletà by Caballer Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h. Nit del Foc by Caballer Pyrotechnics at 01:30 h.

19th March: Mascletà by Caballer Pyrotechnics at the City Hall Square, at 14:00 h. Great ramillete of fireworks and cremà —burning— of the Falla by Ricasa Pyrotechnics at the City Hall at 01:00 h.

German Carnivals in Calpe

On 12 and 13 March 2011, the German Carnival will be held for another year in Calpe, thanks to the efforts of Calpe Carnival Club.

Saturday 12 March marks the start of the fiesta, with the Music and Dance Festival. It will take place at the Calpe Sprots Centre, from 20:00. Admission is free.

Many German and Spanish music bands will challenge party goers to hit the dance floor:

- Charanga “La Xarlota”
- Poco Loco Steelband

- KG Dessau Variety Ballet
- The Prospectors
- “Die Ratsherren” Orchestra
- “Sweet Diamonds” Ballet
- Köln Dancing Music Orchestra
- Querbeat Steels Marching Band
- Revival ABBA Show
- Lourdes Casanova Ballet

The big party is on Sunday 13 March, also in the Sports Centre. Admission is free and the event starts at 19:30 h. Many of the bands that took part on Saturday will also play on this day. In addition to them, other entertainers will join: Der Kölsche Jung, Ballet O-Town Players, CV Oppenheim Tanger Show and Wolfgang Petry Show.

This active association of German residents in Costa Blanca is always organising new events and parties. Their continued efforts for over 28 years have translated in a more multicultural and lively Calpe.

La Casa de Andalucía in Calpe

Next 26^th, 27^th and 28^th February, La Casa de Andalucía (Andalusia club) will hold a commemorative event to celebrate the Day of the region of Andalusia. This event is traditionally held to remember the anniversary of the referendum of 1980, which granted autonomy to the region of Andalusia.

La Casa de Andalucía operates in Calpe since its founding in November 1995 when a group of Andalusian friends came up with the idea of creating a place to share and spread the culture of this region of southern Spain.

Currently, La Casa de Andalusia has over 900 members not only from Andalusian origin but also from other regions of Spain and even other European countries.

The activities to celebrate the day of Andalusia include  the tasting of traditional foods and drinks of the region and cultural activities, closing on Monday with a toast and the singing of the regional anthem of Andalusia.

For more information, email the club at info@casaandaluciacalpe.org or call at +34 965 834 191.

Moors and Christians parade in Calpe

The Town Hall of Calpe has passed in a plenary session the local bank holidays and fiestas for 2011.

The fiestas calendar of Calpe is broad. There is a special celebration almost every month. In 2011, the most important local holidays will be on August 5^th and October 24^th, but there are many more festivities.

The Saint Mary Major fiesta –Fiesta en Honor a la Virgen de las Nieves- will take place on Friday 5^th August 2011.

Then, on 22^nd October, there will be the feast of “Santisimo Cristo del Sudor” -or Santissim Crist de la Suor- and on 24^th October, the Moors and Christians fiesta –Fiesta de Moros y Cristianos.

As soon as the dates approach, we will let you know about the fiestas and bank holidays in Calpe. Some of them have international relevance, such as Oktoberfest, celebrated in October, the Carnival in February, the Virgin of el Rocio procession and fiesta, the Virgin of Mercy fiestas, the Fair of July organised by the Casa de Andalucia, Saint John Summer Solstice bonfires, May Cross –Cruz de Mayo- fiestas also by Casa de Andalucia, Holy week and the Fallas in Calpe, just to mention some.

The battle on the beach

Today, Sunday 24^th, it will be difficult to get bored for in Calpe and its vicinities. It’s the last day of the Moros y Cristianos 2010 fiesta to honour the Santísimo Cristo del Sudor, a miraculous statue of Christ that is reported to have sweated blood.

This is just one on a row of events taking over Calpe during October: Oktoberfest 2010 Calpe and the Romería de San Francesc, a religious fiesta with processions.

The Disembarkation –Desembarco- will take place at 11:00 h. Moors jumping out from the ships will meet the Christians rushing from town at Arenal Bol beach to start the First Battle –Primera Batalla.

At 18:30 h, Moors and Christians associations will feature a colourful Great Children’s Parade -Gran Desfile Infantil de Moros y Cristianos. The last shows start at 21:00 h: The Parliament –Parlamento, the Second Battle –Segunda Batalla- and the Miracle, at Plaza mayor.

The strawberry on the cake is Tapear por Calp 100% different.  Associated restaurants and bars offer a tapa and a drink for only €2. That is, undoubtedly, the best way to close the day.

Oktoberfest, the beer party

This schedule of the Oktoberfest 2010 Calpe aims to give more detailed information about the shows, hours, contests and activities involved in the event:Thursday, October 7^th at 19:00 h: Tent opening by Gunter Jahn, president of Club Carnaval Calpe. Traditional tapping of the original Paulaner beer barrel. Farewell of the 2009 Oktoberfest queen, crowning of the new Oktoberfest queen and at night, nonstop party with Andy and the “Steinberger”.

Friday, October 8^th: Andy and the “Steinberger” show and beer mug lifting contest.

Saturday, October 9^th:  Party with the “Steinberger”; 70’s, 80’s and 90’s music show and midnight show with Franzi and Nicki.

Sunday, October 10^th, Tourist day, from 11:00 to 14:30 h: Snacks and live country music with The Prospectors; paella contest. From 18:00 h onwards, the “Steinberger” and show time: Oldies and Goldies with Bernd. Log sawing contest.

Monday, October 11^th: Music with the “Steinberger” and contemporary songs by Franzi+Nicki+Alex+Bernd.
Tuesday, October 12^th, from 11:00 to 14:30 h: snacks and live jazz music with the New Orleans Hot Dogs. Starting at 18:00 h, music show and Bavarian traditional men’s dance contest.

Wednesday, October 13^th: Zicke Zacke Heu Heu and Oaner gehr noch, nonstop party and beer mug lifting contest.

Thursday, October 14 ^th: The best music hits of the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s.

Friday, October 15 ^th: Nonstop party with the “Steinsberger” and log sawing contest.

Saturday, October 16^th: the “Steinsberger” farewell party.

Sunday, October 17^th: CUSTOM CAR AND BIKE FESTIVAL CALPE, classic cars and bikes exhibition and meetup. Live rock ‘n’ roll, hilly billy and country music, with appearances of The Prospectors, Gatos Viejos, Old School Rockers, After Midnight and Big Jack’s Rythm’n Blues Band.

Oktoberfest, the beer party

This year, Calpe celebrates its XXIII edition of Calpe’s Oktoberfest, the so awaited big beer party where beer and the Club Carnaval Calpe take centre stage.

The “Oktoberfest 2010” festival in Calpe starts on October 7^th, 2010, and will cheer the town until October 17^th. This is, without a doubt, a have-to for those staying in Calpe or visiting. It will take place in the Beer Fiestas tent facing the Silene Ifach children day care.The tent will be open to the public from 18:00 h and the music shows will start at 19:00 h. Exceptions are October 10^th and 12 ^th, open from 11:00 h to 14:00 h as well, featuring the Tourist Day with a paella contest and country music on the 10^th, and a jazz show on the 12^th.

Another novelty for this year is the HAPPY HOUR, with special prices from the 12^th to the 15^th, 18:00 h to 19:30 h. Come to the Oktoberfest supertent that Calpe has prepared for you and enjoy this lively ambient with a good mug of beer.

The Beer Festival (Oktoberfest) at Calpe

Only a few days ago the Town of Calpe was busy celebrating their ( Bull running in the streets), but they are already getting ready for the next fiestas that will be held in October 2010. Local fiestas in Honour of the Virgen of the Snows and the Bous al Carrer

-Procession of the Virgen del Rocio, Calpe fiestas from the 9th to the 12th of  September in honour of the Virgen del Rocio. The pilgrimage is organized by the Hermandad Rociera  of the Casa de Andalucía.The main event these festivals is the encounter between Virgen del Rocío and San Juan with the celebration of the Rociera Mass.

- The Beer Festival, (Oktoberfest) which is organized by the Club Carnaval Calpe.This is a traditional German festival  to which people come from all over the North of the Costa Blanca. If you are in the area between the 7th  to October  the 17th  2010 then you can´t miss it. When we have more information about the Calpe Oktoberfest´s programme we will let you know.

- The Moors and Christians Festival, in Calpe October 2010 we be celebrated from  the 21st  to the 25th of October. Here is a link with more information, so that you don´t miss out,  Programa Fiestas Moros y Cristianos Calpe 2010.

Altea Crafts Fair

During the month of August  until September the  4^th Altea is holds a  Crafts Fair in the evenings at the Church Square in the Old Town of Altea.To walking through the streets of the old town of Altea is an enchanting experience, and  you  can enjoy the stalls of crafts from all over Spain ranging from pottery, jewelry, recycled paper, glass, cane, cardboard, wood, etc.

This year 40 artisans have presented themselves from all over Spain and the jury has selected the 20 that will be exhibited at the Plaza of the Church. Here we can  even find  some crafts from outside of  main land Spain.

In addition, there will be a competition to select three special pieces of art/craft that will then be shown at the Exhibition at the Casa de Cultura. The prizes awarded are from 1,000 to 800 Euros respectively. During the Festival of Crafts there will be workshops for the public, and  various musical performances.

Fiestas in Benissa for this Summer 2010

During the months of these Summer  holidays in the town of Benissa you will find a great number of leisure activities and festivals to take part in. Some of which  are celebrated in parts of town and on the beaches and coves.

- Here are some of the dates of interesting events taking place in Benissa for the month of July:

- From the 9th  to the 11th of July the Barrio de San Antonio festival: with street party on Friday, “Sobaquillo” dinner on Saturday the 10th  and then the performance of the orchestra Colors. Sunday the  11th  at 10:30 the traditional procession of San Antonio, mass and giant paella for all.

From the 16th to the 18th of July:  Local Festivals of Pedramala

- From the 16th to the 18th of July  Pedramala Local Festival:Friday the dinner of the brotherhood and a musical performance. On Saturday the  XXVI Championship of Brisk  at 18:00 and a grand ball at 21:00. On Sunday  Mass at 11:00 am, and evening dinner followed by a dancing party.

From the 23rd to the 29th of  July :  Benimarco The San Jaime Fiestas

- From the 23rd to the 29th of  July Local Fiestas of Benimarco ( San Jaime): On Friday the 23rd  game of hand ball at 19:30 to be followed by a dinner and the performance of a popular  Cabaret group. On Saturday a large festival and performance of the orchestra Ebony. The day of San Jaime they will be celebrating a  Sunday Mass at 11:00 am. Later a rooster  race at  13:30 and a  humorous parade 18:30 h. The grand ball with the music of the orchestra Jamaica at 23:30. The paella contest will be held on Monday at noon and in the evening there will be a street party.  Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 19:00 bull running in the streets.

July the 26th Fiestas of the Santa Ana Area:

- July 26th Fiestas in Santa Ana,  the yearly  pilgrimage to the hermitage and picnic at 18:00 hours. At 20:00  dance with orchestra.

The Moors and Christians Festival in Benissa

The Moors and Christians Festival is coming to Benissa this week . They will be celebrating this magical colourful “Fiesta”  from the 24th to the 28th of June. Here is some useful information about what is lined up for the Moors and Christians of 2010.

Programme Fiestas Moors y Christians 2010 Benissa:

- Thursday, June 24th : 22:00 All the ranks (“Filaes”) meet up at the Castle and celebrate the  Dinner of the Brotherhood ( La Cena de la Hermandad).

- Friday 25th June: at 23:00  presentation ceremony of the Banderines, Abanderados, Ambassadors and Captains followed by the Proclamation of the Fiesta.
- Saturday June 26th: at 19:30  the offering Mass in honor of St. Peter the Apostle .

At 23:30 the Siege of the Moors from the Convent to the Square,  later the capture of the castle by the Moors.

- Sunday June 27th : Grand Parade of all of Benissa “Filaes”, this year the Moorish Captains   belong to the “Filá” ( Rank)  “Taifes Esclaus” and the Christian Captains are in the “Corsaria” rank.

- Monday, June 28th : 12:00 the siege ,recapturing and conquest of the Castle by the Christians. At 20: 00 humorous parade put on by the different “Filaes”.

San Juan Bonfire Nights of Calpe 2010 ( Hogueras)

Festivals ( Fiestas) in Calpe from 26th  to 27th of June 2010 with the  San Juan Bonfire Nights of  Calpe 2010 ( Hogueras). Four days and different ways to  enjoy the Bonfires of San Juan . Here we include the programme so that you can participate in activities that interest you.

– Thursday, June 24: Fiesta de San Juan, they will build the bonfire at  La Cometa  at 19:00 and at 19:30 they will offer a free shuttle bus from Calpe to the Ermita de San Juan in La Cometa, which will host the offering Mass in honor of San Juan. At 22:00 there will be a snack for all participants and at 22:30 the bus will return to Calpe.

– Friday June 25: a day dedicated to the young people with  dinner at the Ermita of San Juan in La  Cometa, live music and young bull running.

– Saturday June 26: all afternoon party with kids playground (19:00 hours), session of  bull running at La Cometa (20:00 pm), screening of reports of  La Cometa Festival (21:00 hours),  dinner “Sobacquillo” at (22:00 hours), open air cinema (23:00 pm), bull running (24:00 hours).

– Sunday June 27: The Lighting of the Bonfire Day, at 09:30 am departure of  the traditional pilgrimage by bicycle from Calpe to the Ermita of San Juan. Meeting point is to be at the Town Hall door of  Calpe. Later at 13: 00 the paella contest. And from 20:00 hours to 22:00 hours bull running in the streets. At 22.00 they will set fire to the bonfire at La Cometa,  Calpe .

Festival of San Juan

San Juan Fiestas in Calpe 24/06 to 27/06

As everyone knows during  the month of June  the vast majority of the municipalities in the province of Alicante celebrate the festival of San Juan.  The town of Calpe also organizes  every year several events to celebrate the Fiesta of the Bonfires of San Juan. The festivities start on Thursday June the 24th  and end on Sunday the 27th of June. Here are some of the events that will take place during these dates, if there are more events and parties added later, we will  include them over the coming month.

AT THE BOL BEACH, CALPE ARENAL: Night of San Juan to be celebrated with a special dinner – “Cremá” (Burning) where they will light the bonfire on the beach Arenal-Bol at 24.00h. - Festivities to be held at the Plaza de Colón.

URBANIZACIÓN, “THE COMET.” On the eve of San Juan Bautista, the patron of “La Cometa”, is preparing a bonfire made up of chairs, tables and other objects in disuse, which they will set fire to at night to celebrate the arrival of summer. It is celebrated from ancient times and is organized by a local family. Date: June the 24th bull-running during the  afternoon and evening – Children’s games in the afternoon – Paella contest – And lastly the “Cremá” ( when they light the bonfire).

Sierra de Bèrnia

16/05 Multi adventure, Sierra de Bernía

Here is some interesting information about  new multi-adventure activities organized by the Vall del Pop Association. This little expedition, will involve abseiling and archery in the Sierra de Bèrnia mountains, from which the views could not be more spectacular.

The event will take place on Sunday May 16, 2010, but you will need to register before; which can be done by phoning  the Tururac Company in charge on  630 992 488 or 965 782 360. You can find more information at  www.tururac.com website,. Be sure to  register before 13:00 hours on Friday.

The point of departure is the Tourist Office is at Benissa on Avenida País Valenciá. ( If you are coming by  motorway turn off at the Benissa exit, nº 63 and head towards the town.) You will find it right  at the town entrance next to Bar Frau where there is ample parking for your car. You will need to be there at  9:00am  and the price is 30 €.

This multi-activity involving hiking, abseiling and archery is not only a physical activity , but is also  an educational one where one can learn more about the environment. We hope you enjoy yourselves and find it interesting.

The low cost Benidorm

23,24/07 The Low Cost Benidorm Festival

Here are some sneak previews of the artists and dates of the Low Cost Benidorm Festival 2010, that will be held on the 23rd and the 24th of July.

Some of the more outstanding artists are the British band , “The Editors” who will be playing on the 23rd and the alternative rock group, “Placebo,” on the 24th of July.

Here are some of the groups anticipated to be performing at the Benidorm Low Cost Festival 2010, but we will update the information as new dates and acts filter in:

Scheduled to take place at the bullring in Benidorm, the auditorium Julio Iglesias  and the amphitheatre  Óscar Esplá in the Recinto L’Aigüera. Tickets for each day cost 30 euros but there is a season ticket for both days for 45 euros which is why it is called the Benidorm  Low Cost  Festival.

- On Friday July 23rd you can see the Editors, Los Planetas, These new Puritans, Love of Lesbian, Does It Offend You Teah?,…     17 groups in total.

- On Saturday July 24th   Placebo, Vive La Fête, Lori Meyers and Ivan Ferreiro, will be performing. The organizers have confirmed 19  different performances  for Saturday but do not rule out new additions.

We will keep you informed  about any updates regarding the times and performances of the Low Cost Benidorm Festival 2010.

Biopark Valencia

If you want to have a wonderful day out with the family during the Spring and Summer months then consider making a visit to Valencia Bioparc. At this time of year it is open right through until 8.00pm.

For those of you not familiar with the Bioparc, it is a zoo with a very modern philosophy based around the concept of, “Zoo-immersion”. The first phase of  the Bioparc is dedicated to  the African Savannah with  extensive herds of antelopes, giraffes, rhinos and lions.

Those who have visited the Bioparc agree that the most exciting part  is the Equatorial African area with gorillas, buffalo, leopards and elephants and  the only recreation in the world of one of Africa’s most legendary caves, “Kitum Cave”.

Other highlights of the zoo are the Madagascan forest habitat, the Bird Aviaries and the life cycle exhibition.

The Bioparc is on the Avenida Pio Baroja 3, 46015 Valencia,for more information about the Bioparc Valencia, call: 902 250 340, tickets can be purchased online.

In terms of accommodation I cannot  recommend  anything, but if you end up spending the night in the Bioparc please tell us about the experience!!!

Easter in Calpe 2010

Here is the Easter 2010 Calendar of Events that the Town of  Calpe have prepared in order to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows (la Virgen de los Dolores), Palm Sunday and Easter 2010.

–        FRIDAY 26th MARCH-THE FEAST OF OUR LADY OF SORROWS.

07:00 h Rosary at Sunrise.. At the end of the rosary, Holy Mass, 19:30 h. Holy Mass, 20:30h. At the end of the Mass. Procession in honour of Our Lady of Sorrows.

- SATURDAY, MARCH 27th, 19:00 h. Holy Mass.

– SUNDAY MARCH 28th -Palm Sunday, 10:00 h. Holy Mass, 10:45 am Parade  to the chapel of the Savior; 11:30 am Blessing  at the Chapel of El Salvador; 12:00 h. Holy Mass, 19:00 h. Holy Mass.

- THURSDAY, 1st APRIL.-HOLY THURSDAY: 18:00 pm Holy Mass, 20:00 h. Mass of the  Holy Supper, 21:30 h. Procession  of the Nazarene, 23:00 h. Holy Hour at the Monument.

- FRIDAY, APRIL 2nd-GOOD FRIDAY, 08:00 h. Opening of the Temple, 09:00 h. Via Crucis at the Chapel of El Salvador; 15:00 h. Recitation of the Rosary of Mercy at the monument; 18:00 h. Celebration of the Passion, Death and Adoration of the Cross 20:30 h. Procession of the Holy Burial.

- SUNDAY 4th APRIL-EASTER SUNDAY: 10:00 pm Holy Mass, 11:00 h. Procession of the Holy. (Leaves from the Parish Church), 11:00 h. The Lord and Mother. Versus recited  12:00 h. Holy Mass. After the Mass the sharing out of Easter Cake and mistela ( Sweet wine).

Festival of flamenco in Valencia

The renowned Flamenco Festival will take place again this year with a new and exciting line up of shows at the Palau de la Música in Valencia from the 30^th of January to the 19^th of February 2010.

The 2010 programme offers a blend of styles and artists, including internationally recognized artists and up and coming ones from the local flamenco scene. It is set to surprise the audience with a show ranging from the purest of flamenco styles to the most contemporary.

• January 30th, 9pm, at the Iturbi Hall : Diego “El Cigala”. Tickets range from 24 to 34€.

• January 31^st, 7.30pm, at the Iturbi Hall : Valencian Flamenco night with Esther Garcés and Israel Amador. Tickets range from 15 to 20€.
• February 14^th, 9pm, at the Iturbi Hall: Buika. Tickets range from 23 to 30€. This amazing show would make an interesting option for Flamenco lovers to celebrate Saint Valentine´s night.
• February 19^th, 9pm, at the Iturbi Hall: Miguel Poveda presents, “Coplas del querer”, performed by Joan A. Amargos, Horacio Fumero,Juan Ramón Caro , Carlota Amargós, Julián Sanchez, Antonio Cornonel, Paquito González, Luis Cantarote and Carlos Grilo.

Tickets available through, “Servientrada,” or by calling (93) 963 995 577 or (93) 902 115 577.