Easter Week is one of the most important celebrations in Spanish culture, especially in the Costa Blanca region. During this week, the cities and towns of the province come alive with religious fervour, processions, music, traditions, and a unique atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists. If you are in the area during these dates, you cannot miss the opportunity to experience one of the most intense celebrations of the year.
When is Easter Week in 2025?
Easter Week in 2025 will be held from Palm Sunday, 13th April, to Easter Sunday, 20th April. During this week, Costa Blanca comes alive with religious and cultural festivities that make the region an ideal destination to enjoy this tradition.
What is Easter Week?
Easter Week, or "Semana Santa," is the Christian commemoration of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Spain, Easter Week is celebrated with various religious and cultural activities, and in many places, processions take place where brotherhoods and fraternities parade through the streets with religious statues, images, and banners. These celebrations are not only a religious act but also a significant cultural expression.
On the Costa Blanca, the cities of Orihuela, Torrevieja, Guardamar del Segura, and Pilar de la Horadada are key places to enjoy these festivities. Each one has its own way of celebrating Easter Week, but all share the emotion, art, and tradition that make this event special.
Processions and Festivals on the Costa Blanca
1. Orihuela
Orihuela is known for its impressive Easter Week celebrations, declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest. In this city, the processions are the main feature, with over 16 religious floats parading through the main streets of the historic centre. The parades involve significant participation from the city's residents, who dress in traditional robes. Among the most notable processions is "El Encuentro" (The Meeting), which takes place on Easter Sunday, 20th April 2025.
In addition to the processions, Orihuela hosts various activities such as sacred music concerts, religious art exhibitions, and theatrical performances. Local cuisine also plays a key role, and you can try typical dishes like "arroz con costra" (a traditional rice dish) and Easter sweets.
2. Torrevieja
Torrevieja also holds an Easter Week full of emotion and devotion. The most important processions in Torrevieja take place through the streets of the old town, with floats that represent different scenes from the Passion of Christ. The local brotherhoods, which have thousands of members, prepare for this celebration all year round.
One of the most significant events is the Good Friday Procession on 18th April 2025, which is one of the most solemn and symbolic. During the week, you can enjoy religious music concerts, art exhibitions, and, of course, the rich local gastronomy, including fish and seafood stews typical of the region.
3. Guardamar del Segura
Guardamar del Segura, a charming coastal town, also celebrates Easter Week with great fervour. The processions in Guardamar offer an opportunity to experience a quieter but equally emotional Easter. Local brotherhoods process to honour the Passion of Christ, and the streets are filled with music and flowers.
One of the most awaited events is the Holy Sepulchre Procession on Holy Thursday, 17th April 2025, which is accompanied by traditional drums and cornets. After the processions, you can indulge in local cuisine, such as "arroz a banda" (a traditional seafood rice dish).
4. Pilar de la Horadada
In Pilar de la Horadada, Easter Week is a deeply rooted celebration, with processions winding their way through the main streets of the town. The Via Crucis Procession and the Our Lady of Sorrows Procession are two of the most significant events of the festival. Additionally, the townspeople actively participate in decorating the religious statues and organising the events.
During Easter Week, you can enjoy the gastronomic offerings of Pilar de la Horadada, including dishes like "caldero" (a fish stew) and traditional Easter sweets, such as torrijas (Spanish-style French toast).
How to Enjoy Easter Week on the Costa Blanca
If you find yourself on the Costa Blanca during Easter Week, there are several ways to make the most of this special celebration:
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Attend the Processions: There is no better way to experience Easter Week than by witnessing the processions. Each day features a different parade, and you can enjoy the religious images, floats, music, and the emotion of the participants.
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Try the Local Cuisine: Each town has its own unique cuisine, and Easter Week is the perfect time to sample traditional dishes like rice dishes, stews, fish, and sweet treats.
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Take Part in Cultural Activities: Sacred music concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances are common during Easter Week. In cities like Orihuela, you can enjoy sacred music and exhibitions of religious art.
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Enjoy the Coast: While Easter Week is primarily a religious celebration, it's also an opportunity to relax on the beautiful beaches of the Costa Blanca, especially in places like Guardamar del Segura and Pilar de la Horadada.
Conclusion
Easter Week on the Costa Blanca is an event full of history, emotion, and tradition that you simply cannot miss. From the impressive processions in Orihuela to the more tranquil celebrations in Guardamar del Segura and Pilar de la Horadada, every corner of this region offers something unique to enjoy the festival. Additionally, you can savour the delicious local cuisine, take part in cultural activities, and, of course, unwind on the stunning beaches of the area.
If you're considering investing in property on the Costa Blanca, Easter Week is a fantastic opportunity to explore more about the region and immerse yourself in its rich culture and traditions. Don’t hesitate to visit these wonderful destinations and experience the magic of Easter Week on the Costa Blanca!