Algeciras Festivals
Algeciras, the lively port town still makes time for the traditional festivals and fairs that take place each year. Here is a look at Algeciras' main traditional festivals such as Cabalgata Reyes Magos, Carnival, San Juan, Virgen del Carmen, Summer Feria and Virgen de la Palma.
Cabalgata Reyes Magos
The Three Kings procession is celebrated on the evening of 5 January. A unique feature of this festival in Algeciras is that thousands of children take to the city’s streets in a deafening procession known as the 'Arrastre de Latas' (Clatter of the Tins). Several legends explain the origin of this tradition. One story by the author Juan Ignacio Pérez tells of a giant named Botafuegos who lived in Algeciras and did not want the children to receive any presents. To this end, he lit a huge bonfire whose smoke blanketed the city, preventing the arrival of the Three Kings. The children guided the kings to the city with noise.
Carnival
Carnival traditions are celebrated before Lent. Check dates for events. The Carnival strats with the traditional chirigotas competition takes place Teatro Municipal Florida, Calle Agustín Bálsamo. A series of events take place all over the city includiong Plaza Alta, Parque Maria Cristina,
Día de Andalucía Andalucia Day is Celebrated on the 28 Febuary.
Semana Santa
Easter week or Holy Week processions take place in all towns and village across Andalucia.
San Juan
San Juan is celebrated on the night of June 23rd and is a celebration that is usually held on the beach with roaring bonfires, drink, food, and friends.
Virgen del Carmen
The procession of the Virgen del Carmen in Algeciras sets off at 19.00 hrs from the Capilla de la Caridad. As has been the case since 2000, Port Police officers accompany the statue along its route to the port.
Summer Fair
Every village in Andalucia's summer highlight is the summer fair (feria) lasting from a few days to a week depending on the size of the village. In Algeciras it is held the last week in June. For example 20th to 27th June 2026. It is held at the city Fairground called Recinto Ferial or Parque Ferial Antonio Quintero Romero at Avenida de la Guardia Civil, A-7 Exit 1119A. The feria can famously be seen in full swing when driving past Algeciras on the A-7 at this time.
Virgin de la Palma
Every 15 August, the city of Algeciras celebrates the feast day of its patron saint, the Virgin of La Palma. This unique Spanish tradition has its roots in the city's maritime heritage. Instead of being kept in a church all year round, the iconic statue of the Virgin of La Palma is stored in a cave at the bottom of the Bay of Algeciras. The first part of the festival begins at around 13:30 hrs with the divers retrieving the statue and carrying it to Playa de la Concha, which is located at the southern end of Playa Rinconcillo beach. The statue is then carried in a procession to the nearby Plaza de la Virgen del Mar, where a mass is traditionally held on the beach at 19.00 hrs. The statue then departs for its grotto at 23.00 hrs, ahead of midnight fireworks. The festival has been declared of Tourist Interest in Andalucia.
Cabaret Festival
Not a traditionial festival but Cabaret Festival is an important series of concerts that take place each July and August in the Plaza de Toros Las Palomas (Bullring).
Halloween and All Saints' Day
Halloween is widely celebrated in Andalucia today. More traditionally on 1 November, Tosantos is celebrated throughout Andalucia, particularly in the villages of Cadiz and Malaga
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