ALTEA'S MAJOR FESTIVITIES: BETWEEN TRADITION AND GUNPOWDER, Cap Negret Hotel

From September 26 to 30, 2025, Altea will be filled with lights, music, and tradition to celebrate its Patron Saint Festivities in honor of the Most Holy Christ of the Tabernacle, alongside the emblematic Moors and Christians Festivals in honor of Saint Blaise.

Declared a Local Intangible Cultural Heritage and a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest in the Valencian Community, this is an event you cannot miss if you visit Altea this September.

The Reconquest of a Coastal Town

Since 1979, Altea has been reviving every September one of its most emblematic celebrations: the Moors and Christians Festivals. Its origin dates back to the landing of Jaime I on the Altea coast, a privileged enclave on the Mediterranean shores that became a strategic stronghold for maritime defense.

Today, centuries later, the people of Altea keep this historical memory alive with dazzling parades, street processions, embassies, and mock battles that recreate both the Arab occupation and the subsequent reconquest.

Every fourth weekend of September, Altea is organized into filaes (Moorish and Christian groups) that parade through its streets with fireworks, music, and traditional costumes, transforming the town into a living stage where history and celebration meet. Below, we present the filaes that bring this grand celebration to life.

When Faith Becomes Celebration

At the same time, the town pays tribute to its other patron, the Most Holy Christ of the Tabernacle, with celebrations full of devotion and tradition that culminate in a spectacular fireworks display.

The Christ of the Tabernacle is so named because it was not the image usually carried in procession, but the one kept in the church tabernacle. Its celebration has its origins in the mid-18th century, linked to the legend of the rescue, according to which the first image of Christ arrived during the redemption of Altea’s captives in North Africa. Later, throughout the 19th century, numerous events considered miraculous increased local devotion until, in 1854, the Christ of the Tabernacle chapel was built and, in 1903, the first festival steward (clavario) was appointed.

Since the early 20th century, the festivities have taken on a more recreational character, incorporating new traditions such as fireworks, Valencian handball matches, and street parties. Today, the celebration offers entertainment for all ages: from dances for adults to storytelling and games for children.

What Not to Miss?

Friday, September 26

6:30 PM – Entrada de la Murta, organized by the Cristo Committee.

11:00 PM – Opening of the Popular Barraca, hosting nightly street parties.

Saturday, September 27

1:00 PM – Moorish Embassy and Christian Surrender.

8:00 PM – Christian Parade.

Sunday, September 28

8:00 PM – Solemn procession in honor of the Christ of the Tabernacle, Saint Blaise, and the Virgin of Consolation.

12:30 AM – Fireworks display.

Monday, September 29

1:00 PM – Christian Embassy and Moorish Surrender.

8:00 PM – Moorish Parade.

📌 Access the full program here.

Experience the Excitement of Altea’s Festivals

The Patron Saint Festivities of Altea are a chance to immerse yourself in local culture, savor traditional cuisine, and let yourself be carried away by the music and the excitement of a tradition that continues to beat at the heart of the town.

If you visit during the Patron Saint Festivities, here are some tips:

• The parades take place along Avenida Jaume I; we recommend arriving early to secure a good spot.


• To enjoy the atmosphere of the embassies, head to Plaza de la Iglesia early, as it is the heart of the festivities and fills up quickly.


• Keep in mind that the historic center becomes very lively, so the best way to explore the town during these days is on foot.


• Every night, enjoy free street parties with live music at the Popular Barraca, located in the Basseta-Centre parking lot.

Feel Altea, celebrate its history, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of its festivals.

Avant la festa i visca la festa!