Guadalest may be famous for its castle and mountain views, but from 14 to 17 August the village will be all about its annual fiestas.
The celebrations in honour of the Virgen de la Asunción and San Roque bring together live music, children’s entertainment, traditional ceremonies, fireworks and plenty of opportunities to enjoy one of the highlights of the summer calendar.
The programme mixes long-standing traditions with modern entertainment, making it just as appealing to families as it is to those looking for a great evening out.
A busy opening day
The festivities begin early on Friday with the traditional Despertà, or “wake-
up parade”, when musicians and festers make their way through the streets to announce the start of the celebrations.
Before that, locals gather before sunrise for the singing of La Aurora, followed by hot chocolate.
Later in the morning, younger visitors can take part in the annual children’s drawing competition before the popular Xinos championship gets underway with snacks, drinks and prizes.
Friday evening also sees the return of the third Festerets presentation, celebrating the village’s youngest fiesta participants.
The day finishes with the procession carrying the Virgen de la Asunción to the church before live music keeps the party going well into the evening.
Family fun and local customs
Saturday mixes tradition with family entertainment.
After the flower offering and the main Mass in honour of the Virgen de la Asunción, children can enjoy an afternoon water park at the sports centre.
Later, one of the village’s best-loved customs returns with the Albaes. These traditional Valencian songs are performed in the streets, with singers stopping at different locations to honour members of the community. This year’s performance is dedicated to Guadalest’s older residents in recognition of the role they have played in preserving local traditions.
The evening continues with a barbecue before the Africània outdoor disco takes over.
Music, costumes and plenty of fireworks
Sunday celebrates San Roque with another Despertà, followed by Mass, music and a parade through the village.
Traditional games in the afternoon promise fun for all ages before the village square fills with music and dancing.
At midnight, the popular fancy dress party gets underway, with prizes for the best costumes before Orchestra Matrix takes to the stage.
A spectacular finish
The final day begins with the last Despertà of the fiestas before Mass in honour of the Virgen de los Dolores.
During the evening, the procession in honour of the Virgen de la Asunción winds through the village accompanied by music from the band La Paz and performances by the Orfeón San Juan.
Later, visitors can enjoy a traditional Valencian mascletà. Unlike a normal fireworks display, a mascletà is all about the sound. Carefully choreographed fireworks and powerful firecrackers build in rhythm and intensity before ending with a dramatic finale.
The celebrations conclude with live music from an Orchestra.
Bridging the Gap’s recap
- Guadalest celebrates its annual fiestas from 14 to 17 August.
- The programme includes live music, family entertainment and traditional ceremonies.
- Visitors can experience a traditional Despertà, the early morning wake-up parade that marks the start of each day.
- The Albaes, traditional Valencian songs performed through the streets, return on Saturday evening.
- A traditional mascletà, famous for its thunderous pyrotechnics, forms part of the closing celebrations.
- The fiestas honour the Virgen de la Asunción and San Roque while welcoming visitors to join in the celebrations.
