The Fair of the Virgin del Carmen
In La Carihuela, an homage and devotion to the patron saint of the sea
On 16th July each year, traditionally the neighborhood of La Carihuela becomes the nerve center of Torremolinos. The procession takes place to pay homage to the Virgen del Carmen, a religious image that holds special devotion in this neighborhood of seafaring tradition, since she is the patron saint of sailors. A seafaring mass is held in the morning, sung by the pilgrims choir ‘La Carihuela’ in the our Lady of Carmen Church (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen). This is the beginning of the day, which also consists of cultural, gastronomic activities, parties and concerts.
The Festival continues in the afternoon with the procession carrying the Virgen from the Church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen to the La Carihuela beach, where another seafaring mass is held. At its completion, comes one of the most emotional and spectacular moments: the statue of the Virgin is moved to a boat and sailed close to the Torremolinos shore before finally being returned to the Church.