Feast of the Virgin of Carmen in Almuñécar

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Like every July 16th, Almuñécar, the oldest Mediterranean town in Spain, dresses up to pay tribute to one of its most beloved devotions: the Virgin of Carmen, patron saint of sailors. This festival, deeply rooted in the hearts of the Sexitanos, is much more than a religious celebration; it is an expression of identity, seafaring culture, and shared emotion that, year after year, attracts locals and visitors to experience one of the most special days of summer.

An event uniting land and sea

The feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Almuñécar centers on the Los Marinos neighborhood, next to San Cristóbal beach, where the small but charming shrine dedicated to the Virgin is located. Days beforehand, the atmosphere begins to fill with fervor and preparations. The streets are decorated with lanterns, flags, and flowers, while fishermen decorate their boats for the traditional maritime procession.

July 16th begins with a solemn mass in honor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, where residents, authorities, and brotherhoods gather to ask for her protection and give thanks for her guidance. The most anticipated moment comes in the afternoon, when the image of the Virgin, beautifully adorned with flowers, is carried in a procession across the land amid cheers, songs, and raw emotions.

The Maritime Procession: The Soul of the Celebration

One of the most impressive and symbolic events of this festival is the maritime procession. After passing through the main streets, the image is carried on the shoulders of sailors to the shore, where it is carefully loaded onto a traditional jabega by sailors. From there, it begins its journey through the Sexitana Bay, accompanied by dozens of boats sailing to the sound of sirens, flares, and salutes, in an unforgettable visual spectacle.

The sea becomes the great altar of this celebration. The boats, decorated with flowers, flags, and nautical motifs, surround the Virgin as they slowly advance along the coast. Halfway through the procession, a stop is made to pay tribute to the deceased sailors, throwing a wreath into the sea in an act full of symbolism and emotion.

An experience for all the senses

The festival of the Virgen del Carmen wouldn’t be complete without its fun and popular elements. Throughout the day, the Los Marinos neighborhood and other areas of the city are filled with music, food, and joy. Terraces fill with families and groups of friends who take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy fried fish, sardines on skewers, and other local delicacies, while pasodobles, sevillanas, and live music play.

In addition, the Almuñécar City Council often organizes complementary activities for all audiences: concerts, children’s games, parades, and fireworks that illuminate the Sexitana night as the final touch to a magical day.

A must-attend summer event on the Costa Tropical

The celebration of the Virgen del Carmen in Almuñécar is one of those experiences that leave a lasting impression. Its combination of devotion, seafaring culture, natural beauty, and festive atmosphere make it a must-attend event for those visiting the Costa Tropical in July. It’s also an excellent opportunity to experience the soul of a people who look to the sea with gratitude and pride.

Whether you’re a lover of popular traditions, a visitor in search of authentic moments, or simply someone who wants to experience a unique day by the Mediterranean, the celebration of the Virgen del Carmen in Almuñécar awaits you with open arms.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re planning to enjoy summer 2025 in Almuñécar, don’t forget to reserve July 16th in your calendar. Arrive early to find a good spot on San Cristóbal beach, sample the local cuisine, and prepare to immerse yourself in one of the town’s most beloved traditions.

Come and enjoy the Virgin of Carmen

At Discover Almuñécar, we invite you to enjoy this festival with all five senses, to be moved by the seafaring faith of a town, and to celebrate with us a day that unites past and present by the sea.

Don’t wait to hear about it; come, experience it, and enjoy it—you won’t regret it.