Moros y Cristianos in Bocairent: an ancient battle revived

• Moros y Cristianos in Bocairent
• Location: Bocairent, Valencia province (on the border of the Costa Blanca)
• Dates: February 7 – 12, 2025

A city steeped in history

Anyone walking through Bocairent in February will notice it immediately—there’s something in the air. Not just the scent of wood fires and freshly baked sweets, but a sense of excitement that transports you straight to the Middle Ages.
From February 7 to 12, 2025, Bocairent hosts one of Spain’s oldest and most impressive Moros y Cristianos festivals, a tradition that reenacts the battles between Moorish and Christian troops from centuries ago.
The first time I witnessed this celebration, I didn’t know where to look. Giant banners fluttered through the narrow streets, drums echoed against the town’s ancient stone walls, and everywhere you turned, there were magnificent costumes—from elegant Moorish warriors to proud Christian knights.
It felt like stepping onto a movie set, but this was no fantasy. This was living history.

The rhythm of drums and gunpowder

The festivities kick off on February 7 with the Entrada, a spectacular parade where the different filàs—the groups representing the Moors and Christians—march through the streets in their meticulously crafted costumes.
Every detail is perfect: from the ornate turbans and embroidered kaftans of the Moors to the gleaming armor and imposing crosses of the Christians.
On February 8 and 9, the battles are reenacted. The streets of Bocairent transform into a battlefield, explosive powder fills the air, and knights on horseback “defend” the town against the advancing Moors.
The first time I witnessed it, I was in awe of the precision and passion with which these scenes were performed. You can feel the pride, tradition, and deep respect for history in every movement.

Personal tip: Want the best view of the battles? Find a spot at Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where the fights are the most spectacular!

The highlight: the procession of San Blas

Beyond the battles and parades, the Fiesta de Moros y Cristianos in Bocairent has a deeply religious core. On February 10, the procession of San Blas, the patron saint of Bocairent, takes place.
Hundreds of people walk in silent reverence through the town, illuminated only by candles and lanterns. It is a magical moment, where the exuberant celebrations give way to a sense of reflection.
The air is heavy with incense, church bells ring softly in the distance, and if you look closely, you can see the emotion on the faces of the locals. This is their heritage, their history, and they carry it with pride.

Highlights:

• February 7: Grand Entrada Parade
• February 8-9: Battles and historical reenactments
• February 10: Procession of San Blas

More information at Bocairent.org

Why you shouldn’t miss this

Whether you’re a lover of history, spectacular costumes, or impressive parades, Moros y Cristianos in Bocairent is an experience you won’t soon forget.
It transports you back to an era where knights and sultans fought for power, and the streets of Spain set the stage for epic battles.
So put on sturdy shoes, let yourself be swept away by the sound of drums and trumpets, and experience a festival that has been the soul of Bocairent for centuries.