Fiestas de la Divina Pastora en Motril

Introduction and local significance

The Fiestas de la Divina Pastora in Motril are celebrated this year from 16 to 18 October 2026 in honour of the patron saint of the Capuchinos neighbourhood. Organised around the Plaza Hermanas Mercedarias in this town in the province of Granada, these days combine religious devotion with cultural and leisure activities for locals and visitors alike.

Historical origins and tradition

This patron saint festival centres around the devotion to the Divina Pastora in the Capuchinos neighbourhood of Motril. Traditional events include public recognition of local residents with an outstanding trajectory in the area and displays of artistic talent linked to the municipality.

Programme and main events

The official programme of the Fiestas de la Divina Pastora in Motril spans three consecutive days with activities for all audiences in the Plaza Hermanas Mercedarias and its surroundings:

• 16 October: At 16:00, floral offering in the Plaza Hermanas Mercedarias. At 19:30, exhibition of the Trasarte painting competition, with the prize-giving ceremony at 20:30. This is followed by a performance by the Escuela Flamenca Mercedes Martín (20:45), the opening speech by Álvaro Ruiz Carmona (21:30) and recognition of local residents (21:45). The evening continues with the Asociación de Baile Virgen de las Angustias (22:00) and an open-air dance featuring Marino (22:45).
• 17 October: Begins at 10:00 with hot chocolate with churros in the Plaza Hermanas Mercedarias, followed by a parade with a fancy dress competition accompanied by the brass band "Llena que nos vamos" (10:30). At 12:00, mass is celebrated along with the prize-giving for the parade. The afternoon highlights include the 16th Cooking Competition (14:00), the 16th Rentoy Card Game Competition (14:30) and the procession (18:30). The day concludes with dances by the Asociación Agua Viva, San Antonio, and Punta y Tacón, a bachata and salsa exhibition by Víctor (21:30), the Dúo Voltaje open-air dance (22:00) and the prize-giving ceremony.
• 18 October: Morning session featuring a free bouncy castle (11:00), the 17th "Las fiestas de mi Barrio" Drawing Competition (12:00), a performance by the Asociación Menea-T (12:30) and the Dance Tropical Beach dance group (13:00). At 14:00, the drawing prizes are awarded, followed by a performance by the group Siempre a Compás (14:30) and a communal lunch featuring migas (bread crumbs fried with garlic and pork).

Traditional festival food

The gastronomy of these patron saint festivities features traditional recipes enjoyed communally in the squares. A highlight is the popular hot chocolate served in the morning in the Plaza de las Hermanas Mercedarias. Additionally, as part of the events on the final day, there is a communal lunch centred around the preparation of migas.

Visitor guide and where to stay

Activities are concentrated in the Plaza Hermanas Mercedarias in Motril. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance in the town itself or in nearby locations to easily attend the evening events. On days with the highest turnout, it is preferable to use public transport or park your vehicle outside the main centre. It is recommended to check the official channels of the Ayuntamiento de Motril for any last-minute schedule changes.