THE ESSENCE OF PEÑÍSCOLA AS ALWAYS
Traditional Festivals
January. San Antonio Abad
This is usually held the second week of January and is one of the most emblematic fiestas of Peñiscola. The festival of San Antonio Abad, patron saint of animals is celebrated over a weekend where a parade for the blessing of the animals is organized and then mass in the Church of Santa Maria of Peñiscola.
The celebration ends with the lighting of bonfires and the tasting of typical local produce cooked on the grill.
February. Carnival
The town of Peñiscola is full of colour and joy during the first weekend of February. The celebrations begin with a parade through the streets of the city and at nightfall you will witness dancing in fancy dress which is usually held in the Plaza de Santa Maria.
The carnival ends with a multitud of chocolate for the children. A weekend full of fun!
March/April. Easter
During the two weeks of Easter, Peñiscola hosts events and religious celebrations. From Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday you can enjoy all the different groups in the fantastic old town of Peñisola.
April. Pilgrimage of San Antón
The Sunday after Easter is celebrated every year with the festival of San Antón.
All visitors are invited to eat and spend a day of celebration in the Chapel which is 5 km from the city centre. A pleasant walk to the natural landscape of the Sierra de Irta and holiday for everyone who wants to join in the celebrations.
June. Bonfires of San Juan
On June 24th, Peñiscola celebrates the summer solstice with bonfires on the beach and fireworks. A special night, full of magic and charm.
June. San Pedro
As a fishing village, Peñiscola celebrates the festival of St. Peter (patron saint of sailors) every 29th June. Amongst the most popular events is the mass in honour of San Pedro and the journey by the sailors.
September. Festivities
In honour of the Virgin of the Hermitage, celebrations are held between the second and third week of September. Fireworks, heifers on the beach and the famous and most popular Moors and Christians parade. The parade commemorates the stages of Muslim power in Spain and the battles that alternated between Muslims and Christians. Each side taking it in turn to conquer the city for one day. The celebrations are over when the city is reconquered by the Christians.