Virgen del Carmen celebrations, Costa del Sol

The Day of the Virgen del Carmen is celebrated on Wednesday, 16th July, in many coastal towns with a long tradition of fishing and seafaring.

As in previous years some towns have declared the day a public holiday. Other places may not, even though there are religious and cultural celebrations.

The Day of the Virgen del Carmen, a bank holiday in towns like Torremolinos and Fuengirola as well as Benalmadena, Estepona and Benalmadena, allows the locals to celebrate religiously and with festive acts, all in honor of the patron saint of the fishermen. Locals of all faiths are encouraged to participate in these celebrations and rituals. The maritime and land procession is the most important act in these municipalities. Decorated boats travel the waterways to ask for safety and prosperity for the fishermen.

On the other hand, municipalities such as Marbella, Mijas, Manilva, Benahavís, Casares and Ojén celebrate the Day of the Virgen del Carmen with various religious and festive activities, but they have not declared it a public holiday. Masses, processions and other cultural events are held in these areas, yet workers must still work the same hours as any other day. Why? Under Spanish law, all municipalities must celebrate the same number and types of bank holidays.

The day is important to the Costa del Sol, so you can expect to see some stores and services closed and some streets closed for processions. Benalmadena’s buses are operating a Sunday service within the town, but it is unlikely to cause any inconveniences as they run as often as normal. Fuengirola Torremolinos y Estepona report no changes. All buses and trains travelling between towns will run their normal services.

Visit your local port to experience some amazing cultural happenings.