Villena Shines with its Moors and Christians: Tradition, History, and Emotion

The city of Villena transforms each year into a vibrant scene of color, music, gunpowder, and tradition with the celebration of the Moors and Christians Festival. This event not only gathers thousands of people but also serves as a living testament to the rich history and culture of this region. From September 4 to 9, Villena dresses up to host a very special edition marked by historical moments and a program filled with events.

The Moors and Christians Festival in Villena is known as one of the most participative. This year, more than 12,000 people are expected to participate, all divided between the Moorish and Christian sides, each with seven troupes. During these days, the city becomes a hive of activity, with its streets filled with parades, festive music, gunpowder, and spectacular costumes that capture the essence and draw the attention of every visitor.

The program of events is as extensive as it is exciting, keeping both locals and visitors immersed in the celebration from dawn until late into the night. From the majestic Entrada on September 5, where the troupes parade with great splendor astonishing all present, to the solemn processions in honor of the patron saint, Our Lady of Virtues, affectionately known as "La Morenica," or the moments of camaraderie and fun within the troupes, every moment is an opportunity to dive into the magic of this festival declared of National Tourist Interest.

The celebrations begin on September 4 with preliminary events that warm up for the main days. On September 5, announcer Virtudes López Lorenzo will officially kick off from the balcony of the Town Hall, followed by the Pasodoble Festival that fills Villena's streets with music and joy.

In 2024, Villena's Moors and Christians Festival makes history: for the first time, women will lead the iconic Entrada starting at 4 PM, filling the city's streets with color and music—one of the most anticipated and well-attended moments of the festival.

September 6 is the day of the grand parade featuring all troupes. A unique day that will include a morning mass, an embassy act, and a contraband reenactment prior to the parade.

On September 7, the Hope Parade will take center stage in the program. This parade represents not only the continuity of tradition but also the future of the festival, with active participation from young people ensuring these celebrations endure for generations. The day culminates with La Retreta, a nighttime parade full of light and color starting at 11 PM this year, followed by La Alborada and a spectacular fireworks display launched from Atalaya Castle.

September 8 is a major day in honor of Our Lady of Virtues, featuring the most solemn acts. The mass and procession in honor of the patron saint are followed by a reenactment of The Conversion from Moor to Christianity at the main altar of Santiago Apostle Church. This day manifests the deep devotion that Villena's residents feel for "La Morenica." The festivities conclude on September 9 with a parade where new captains, lieutenants, and godmothers put a golden touch to these celebrations.

The Moors and Christians Festival in Villena is much more than just a celebration; it is an encounter with history, an affirmation of identity, and a moment of communion between locals and visitors. Villena invites everyone to be part of this unique experience—to live each parade intensely, each act—and to be carried away by the magic of a tradition that continues to captivate all those fortunate enough to witness it year after year.