Hundreds joined Villajoyosa’s traditional San Isidro pilgrimage celebrations

Hundreds of residents took part in the annual San Isidro romeria in the Ermita neighbourhood of Villajoyosa during a weekend filled with religious traditions, music and community celebrations dedicated to the patron saint of farmers.

The festivities, organised by the La Ermita Fiesta Commission, once again transformed one of Villajoyosa’s most historic neighbourhoods into a lively meeting point for local families, neighbours and visitors.

The main celebration took place on Sunday, May 17, when participants accompanied the image of San Isidro in a traditional pilgrimage procession through the streets of the municipality.

Traditional romeria brought residents together

The romeria began at the San Antonio Abad parish church, where the image of San Isidro was placed on a traditional cart pulled by a horse before making its journey towards the Ermita neighbourhood.

Residents walked alongside the procession while many spectators gathered along the streets to watch one of Villajoyosa’s best-known local traditions.

After arriving at the neighbourhood, participants gathered for a communal breakfast and social activities that continued throughout the day before the image later returned to the parish church.

The annual celebration preserves customs closely linked to Villajoyosa’s agricultural history and remains one of the municipality’s most important neighbourhood traditions.

Music, food and local traditions filled the weekend

Festivities had already begun the previous day with activities organised in the Ermita neighbourhood, including a popular potato omelette competition, music performances and DJs.

Organisers also installed a bar with affordable food and drinks for attendees, helping create a festive atmosphere throughout the weekend celebrations.

The San Isidro festivities continue to play an important role in preserving local identity and community spirit in Villajoyosa, particularly in the Ermita district where many traditions linked to agriculture and rural life remain deeply rooted.

In recent years, neighbourhood celebrations such as the San Isidro romeria have continued attracting strong participation from both long-time residents and younger generations eager to maintain local customs alive along the Costa Blanca coast.

The event once again highlighted the strong community ties that continue defining many of Villajoyosa’s traditional fiestas and religious celebrations.