Villajoyosa prepares to celebrate its oldest traditional festival this September

As late September arrives, the coastal town of Villajoyosa is preparing to celebrate one of its oldest and most cherished heritage events, the Fiestas de San Miguel Arcángel. Centred in the historic barrio of La Ermita, this annual gathering surrounding the feast day of Saint Michael on September 29 marks the arrival of autumn with vibrant street life, age-old customs, and deep-rooted community hospitality.

High-energy spectacles and regional folklore: Villajoyosa’s annual festivities

This multi-day event, considered the oldest continuously celebrated festival in Villajoyosa, brings together generations of local residents and curious tourists. The varied programme balances high-energy street spectacles with regional folklore. Nighttime correfocs, or fire runs, will light up the neighbourhood with dramatic pyrotechnics, accompanied by roving brass bands, or bandetes, and late-night concerts. Regional dance troupes, including the Grup de Danses Centener, will perform traditional Valencian dances in authentic period attire, while younger attendees enjoy daytime street games, foam parties, and interactive workshops scattered throughout the area.

Culinary contests and community gatherings

Gastronomy will play an equally important role in the weekend’s festivities. A major highlight is the popular All i Oli competition, where participants test their patience and skill by hand-whipping garlic mayonnaise using traditional mortars and pestles. The community spirit will continue through regional card tournaments, shared outdoor lunches, and lively evening gatherings where neighbours and guests come together under the festoon lights.

Villajoyosa celebrates its religious heritage: Don’t miss the San Miguel Arcángel festivities this September

The celebrations will finally reach their peak on September 29 with a mass at the parish of San Antonio Abad, followed by a picturesque religious procession carrying the statue of San Miguel through the decorated streets of La Ermita.

The Villajoyosa Town Hall will also run a free shuttle bus service connecting the central Parque de la Barbera dels Aragonés directly to the fairgrounds throughout the main festival days, making it simple to experience one of the Costa Blanca’s most authentic local traditions.

With fun festivities, mouth-watering food, and traditions rooted in Villajoyosa’s vibrant culture, the annual Fiestas de San Miguel Arcángel will be an unmissable spectacle at the end of September on the vibrant Costa Blanca.