From the 24 to 31 July 2024 Vila Joiosa is transformed into a stage full of history and tradition when the annual Moors and Christians festival, Moros i Cristians, is celebrated. This unique event on the Costa Blanca offers a week full of fascinating parades, festive activities and cultural highlights.
Wednesday, 24 July:
21:00: Opening of the artistic illumination that lights up the streets of Vila Joiosa in a festive glow.
21:00: Parade of bands through the town, starting at the headquarters of the Santa Marta Association and ending at the Barbera de los Aragonés. The celebrations end with an impressive „mascletà“ to kick off the festive week.
Thursday, 25 July:
20:30: Entry of the Moors. The parade begins in Calle Colón and continues along Avenida País Valenciano to Plaza de la Generalitat, where the various Moorish troops are presented.
Friday, 26 July:
20:30: Christian procession. Starting in the Calle de Colón, the parade moves along the Avenida País Valenciano to the Plaza de la Generalitat, with an impressive presentation by the Christian troops.
Saturday, 27 July:
18:00: Gathering of the fishermen's, sailors', pirates' and smugglers' companies at the Barranquet roundabout and march to the harbour for embarkation.
19:00: Assembly of the Christian troops in the Plaza de la Generalitat and march to the beach in defence of the castle.
20:00: The Counterbanders and pirates fight against the Christian troops on the beach and reach the castle for the Counterbander Embassy at 20:30.
21:00: Presentation of the Moorish troops to their king, followed by the Bedouin Embassy.
Saturday, 27 July:
18:00: Gathering of the fishermen's, sailors', pirates' and smugglers' companies at the Barranquet roundabout and march to the harbour for embarkation.
19:00: Assembly of the Christian troops in the Plaza de la Generalitat and march to the beach in defence of the castle.
20:00: The Counterbanders and pirates fight against the Christian troops on the beach and reach the castle for the Counterbander Embassy at 20:30.
21:00: Presentation of the Moorish troops to their king, followed by the Bedouin Embassy.
Sunday, 28 July:
03:00: March of the Moorish troops to Avenida Varadero and the harbour.
05:00 am: Departure of the Christian army to the Christian camp.
06:00: General alarm on the beach, arrival of the envoy and disembarkation of the Moors with their embassy.
20:00: Concentration of Moorish troops in the Plaza de la Generalitat and Christian troops to recapture the castle.
21:00: Christian Embassy and recapture of the castle by the Christians, followed by a salvo of honour from the Christian artillery.
Monday, 29 July:
11.30 am: Departure of the procession from the headquarters of the Santa Marta Association, led by the kings, captains and officials.
12:00 pm: Solemn Mass in honour of Santa Marta in the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption.
19:00: Solemn mass followed by a procession in honour of Santa Marta through the historic centre.
00:30: Santa Marta fireworks on the beach.
Tuesday, 30 July:
13:00: Paella competition on the Avenida de Benidorm.
Wednesday, 31 July:
20:00: Pram parade through various streets of the city.
The programme and any current changes can be found at - http://www.turismolavilajoiosa.com/es/Agenda/Evento/15203-
The Moros i Cristians 2024 celebrations offer locals and visitors alike the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Vila Joiosa. The festival is an integral part of the Costa Blanca's cultural calendar and promises unforgettable experiences for all participants and spectators.
