It is time to celebrate as Dolores enjoys its Patron Saint Festivities until Tuesday, 23 September.
If you join the fun you can expect parades, music, tradition, even a foam cannon or two, in honour of the town’s Patron Saint, the Virgin of Dolores
Dolores Patron Saint Festivities: Highlights
Thursday 18 September: Children will enjoy the desfile de cabezudos (parade of giant papier-mâché heads), alongside the Reinas y Damas (festival queens and ladies). In the evening, neighbours get competitive in the Concurso de Calles Engalanadas (Street Decoration Contest).
Friday 19 September: Winners of the decoration contest are announced, followed by the floral offering to the Virgin. The floral offering is a moving tradition that gathers hundreds of devotees.
Saturday 20 September: Time for the dazzling Multicolour Parade, where clubs and troupes will compete with creative costumes and floats. The day starts with a Festival Infantil (Children’s Festival) in the Town Hall Square and ends with live music, dancing, and late-night revelry.
Sunday 21 September: This is the big religious day. At noon, a mascletà (firecracker display) shakes the town. Later, a Camilo Sesto tribute concert will take place before the Solemn Procession of the Virgin. The night will end with a bang with a spectacular fireworks show.
Food, football and fireworks
On Monday, 22 September, everyone will gather at the Polideportivo Municipal for the traditional Paella Contest. Alongside the paella contest there will be water game fun for children. Followed by, the very popular and long awaited “solteros contra casados” (singles vs. married) football match.
The evening features a concert by the Sociedad Unión Musical de Dolores (Dolores Musical Union Band), followed by a chocolatada (giant hot chocolate party) and another round of fireworks.
Finally, on Tuesday, 23 September, The Virgin’s Return marks the end of unforgettable days of devotion, culture, and pure fiesta spirit.
