Photo: Marinasabater · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Patron saint festival Regional Tourist Interest
Fiestas de la Bruja en Alcantarilla
Alcantarilla, Murcia · Región de Murcia
2026 edition
31 May 2026
✔ Official dates confirmed
Introduction and local significance
Las Fiestas de la Bruja in Alcantarilla are celebrated in this town located in the Region of Murcia. This festivity holds the official declaration of Tourist Interest in the Region of Murcia. For this current edition, the confirmed dates are 31 May 2026. It is well worth planning your visit in advance to experience firsthand the many local traditions that unfold during these festive days.
Historical origins and tradition
This celebration linked to local history includes the election of the senior and child Queens, where each participating peña (local club) usually enters a senior and a child Lady into the competition. The events recall the era of the Inquisition and witchcraft through the thematic decoration of its urban spaces. Additionally, the festivities prominently feature the romería (pilgrimage) in honour of the town's patron saint, Nuestra Señora de la Salud.
Programme and main events
The programme for Las Fiestas de la Bruja in Alcantarilla covers various cultural and festive events spread across the Murcian town. Highlights include the peñas parades, the Flamenco Festival, the Noche de la Copla, the Tango Festival and the "Villa de Alcantarilla" Folklore Festival.
- Caza y Juicio a la Bruja (Hunt and Trial of the Witch): traditional performance within the scheduled festive events.
- Desfile de Carrozas (Float Parade): route along calle Mayor with the participation of troupes, groups and floats where toys are handed out.
- Quema de la Bruja (Burning of the Witch): spectacle in plaza Adolfo Suárez where a large papier-mâché witch is burned, followed by a firework display.
- Mercado Medieval (Medieval Market): space set up to introduce visitors to the theme of the era and witchcraft.
- Feria de atracciones (Fairground): amusement area located in the Recinto de Fiestas (Fairground Venue).
Traditional festival food
Official documentation and the information dossier for Las Fiestas de la Bruja in Alcantarilla do not record specific typical dishes or exclusive traditional menus for this patron saint festivity. The celebration focuses its main interest on the parades, the medieval market, the musical festivals and the pyrotechnic events scheduled during the days.
Visitor guide and where to stay
It is advisable to book accommodation in advance for the festival dates, either in the municipality itself or in nearby towns to make it easier to follow the evening events. On days with the highest visitor turnout, it is preferable to use public transport or park outside the town centre. Before travelling, it is recommended to check the official channels as timetables and events may change.