Murcia and Cartagena host iSportFest 2026 with 180 sports and thousands of visitors

In October, the major Costa Calida hubs of Murcia and Cartagena welcomed thousands of sports enthusiasts as the iSportFest 2026 event brought more than 180 free activities to the Region, promoting physical activity, socialisation and healthier lifestyles. The event saw countless experienced athletes, as well as curious newcomers, get on their feet, get active and enjoy a weekend of sport in these idyllic cities.

Murcia and Cartagena welcome thousands of athletes to iSportFest

The festival, now in its fifth edition, offered a range of more than 70 sporting disciplines, including competitions, demonstrations, workshops and activities for people of different ages and skill levels. According to organisers, across the two cities, more than 100,000 people participated in the event, exceeding initial expectations.

The festival was organised by the University of Murcia and the Union of Sports Federations of the Region of Murcia, with support from regional and local authorities. It was also co-funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ Sport programme.

Murcia served as the main stage for the region’s athletes

Murcia hosted the largest part of the programme, with sporting activities spread across more than 110,000 square metres around the José Barnés Sports Centre, Parque Fofó, the Príncipe de Asturias and Nuevo Cagigal sports halls, as well as nearby outdoor areas.

Visitors could partake in a wide range of activities, from athletics, cycling and gymnastics to martial arts, volleyball and other disciplines. Popular attractions included the Bicycle Festival and the Tram Challenge, which pitted the strength of elite athletes against the pulling power of a city tram.

Inclusive activities put accessibility at the heart of the festival

Inclusivity also took centre stage in the programme. Athletes in wheelchairs were able to participate in various sports, including basketball, boccia, adapted archery and more.

Cartagena brings nautical sports to the waterfront

Meanwhile, Cartagena focused on water-based activities and sports along its coastline, combining sporting demonstrations with opportunities for visitors to try new disciplines. The port area hosted activities including cycling trials, inline hockey, badminton, rugby and martial arts. Visitors could also enjoy nautical experiences organised with the Cartagena Regatta Club, including rowing, dragon boating, canoeing and sailing.

Workshops, demonstrations and inclusive archery competitions took place at several locations around the city. High-level athletes were present at the festival, sharing their experiences and expertise about their disciplines. 

The Cartagena activities formed part of a wider European project involving organisations from 12 countries, all working to promote inclusion and widen access to physical activity.

The festival reinforced Murcia and Cartagena’s roles as destinations for sport and leisure, offering residents and visitors a chance to discover new interests and get active. A booming success in the Region of Murcia, iSportFest, once more, demonstrated how sport can break down barriers and bring communities together.