|
|
|
The local culture is bright and lively and visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the passion and soul of the local traditional customs.
In January, on the 16th and 17th, the town observes the feast of San Antón. This fiesta is marked by a lavish procession and exciting fireworks displays.
In February, the colorful and popular Carnaval comes to town! The Carnaval is three wonderful days of non stop partying and local performances like the Chirigotas (“popular songs”) and an exciting and splendid street parade.
From March to April, the whole of Spain observes the Lenten season. This is a solemn time in the Catholic Church. In April, the Lenten season culminates with the Semana Santa (“Holy Week”). Throughout Spain, the passion of the Christ is commemorated with processions and special solemn masses.
In the 3rd of May, the people of Nerja observe the Cruces de Mayo (“Crosses of May”). Crosses are put up in different locations in the town and decorated with flowers. The zone that comes up with the best decorated cross wins a prize. There is also singing and dancing around the crosses. Then, on the 15th of May, the Romeria de San Isidro takes place. This is a pilgrimage of horses and people in traditional Spanish dress dedicated to Saint Isidore.
|
 |
The 23rd of June is the Noche de San Juan (“Night of St. John”). The celebrations for this fiesta begin in the morning on the beach, and lasts well into late evening, when a big outdoor barbecue is held. There are bonfires on the shore and splendid fireworks displays. For good fortune, people dip their feet in the sea just after midnight. Some of the revelers end up in the water fully clothed!
On the 16th of July, the town celebrates El Dia de la Virgen del Carmen (“Feastday of the Virgin of Carmen”). The Virgin of Carmen is the patron saint of all fishermen. After a solemn mass, the statue of the Virgin is carried around town in a procession. The procession makes its way to the beach, where the statue is loaded onto a brightly decorated boat. The procession continues on the sea out to a certain point. When the boats have reached that point, fireworks are set off on the shore.
During the month of July, there is a string of flamenco and classical music held inside the Nerja caves. These fantastic shows feature top ballet performers from around Spain.
In September, on the 7th to the 9th, the people of Maro hold the Feria de las Maravillas, a fiesta dedicated to some of the local saints. The festivities include children’s dances, music performances, and a big fair lasting for 3 days. Then, come October, the locals of the Nerja town proper hold their own fair, the Feria de Nerja, lasting for 5 days. This is also a celebration of the local town saints.
In the winter season, there are two major celebrations. First is the Todos Los Santos (“All Saints’ Day”), which falls on the 1st of November. This is also a national holiday in Spain. Finally, Christmas is celebrated on the 25th of December. Christmas Eve in Nerja is particularly solemn; establishments close early in the afternoon so families could gather for dinner in their homes.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Other Relevant Travel Guides |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
