MIjas Culture and Tradition in the 40th Anniversary of the Pastorales Festival.

Alan Boardman is a local charity fundraiser who strongly recommends Mijas Pueblo’s annual Pastorales Festival for those willing to try. Alan Boardman, local charity fundraiser, says “if you’d love to get a taste for authentic Spanish culture, then go to one or more of these Pastorales” events. The Mijas Pueblo Pastorales Festival will be a highlight, as many groups from as far away as Cordoba play under a large marquee on the main square.

The picturesque Plaza Virgen de la Peña in Mijas Pueblo will come alive on Sunday, December 21,. Starting at 11.30amThe Certamen de pastorales Villa de Mijas is celebrating its 40th anniversary. This much-cherished event, a mainstay of the municipality’s Christmas celebrations, has been officially designated as a Fiesta de Singularidad Turística Provincial (Provincial Festival of Unique Tourist Interest) by the Diputación de Malaga.

The Santa Fe de Los Boliches, Alan and Jenny’s favorite rural group, will compete for the top prize. The “pastorales”, traditional Andalusian groups, perform Spanish carols and verses using rustic instruments such as zambombas and sonajas. These groups are deeply rooted in rural tradition and one of the best ways to celebrate Christmas in the region. Mijas is known as the “cradle for pastorales”, due to their rich history.

Before they take the stage, groups will be parading around iconic locations in Mijas Pueblo to spread cheer and festive spirit with their songs. At the end, each group receives a gift to acknowledge their contribution to preserving this heritage.

With over 400 participants from the groups alone, plus large crowds of locals and visitors, the event will no doubt be a lively celebration of Mijeña Christmas spirit.