The Mare de Déu de Loreto Festivities are one of the most cherished celebrations in Xàbia. Held in the fishing neighborhood of Duanes de la Mar, these festivities honor the Virgin of Loreto, patron saint of fishermen and protector of the sea. The tradition has its roots in the devotion of the local fishing community and has been preserved for centuries, evolving over time while keeping its essence alive.
Every year, in late August and early September, Xàbia’s harbor fills with color, music, and tradition. Streets are decorated with flags and ornaments, and locals gather in “peñas” (social groups) to take part in the various events. From religious ceremonies to fun activities, the festivities offer a perfect mix of devotion and entertainment.
Mare de Déu de Loreto 2025 Festivities schedule
Here’s the full schedule of events for this year:
🗓️ Monday, August 18 – Tuesday, August 26
- 8:00 PM: Novena in honor of the Mare de Déu de Loreto at the Duanes parish church.
📅 Tuesday, August 19
- 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM & 5:00 – 8:30 PM: XIII Blood Donation Marathon Dionís Henarejos at the Casal Fester on Severo Ochoa Street.
📅 Sunday, August 24
- 8:30 AM: I Multibrand Vehicle Gathering Mare de Déu de Loreto on Jaume I Avenue.
📅 Friday, August 29
- 6:00 PM: XVIII Children’s Fishing Demonstration by Peña La U.C.A. at Xàbia harbor.
📅 Saturday, August 30 – Children’s Day
- 10:00 AM: Games and children’s activities at Arenal Beach.
📅 Sunday, August 31
- 10:00 AM: XLII Peña La Bufa Popular Race.
- 10:00 AM: XXXIII Mare de Déu de Loreto Chess Championship at the Festive Tent on Severo Ochoa Street.
📅 Monday, September 1 – Day of the Marine Peñas
- 10:00 AM: Community lunch for all Peñas offered by Peña Les Marineres.
- 12:00 PM: Parade of the Marine Peñas through the streets of Duanes de la Mar.
- 12:00 PM: Bous a la Mar (bulls into the sea) with ELS COVES livestock.
- 4:00 PM: Bingo organized by Peñas Antes Muertas que Sencillas and Les Doblaes on Sevilla Street.
📅 Tuesday, September 2
- 10:00 AM: Community lunch for all Peñas offered by Peña Les Marineres.
- 12:00 PM: Parade of the Marine Peñas through the streets of Duanes de la Mar.
- 12:00 PM: Bous a la Mar with ELS COVES livestock.
- 4:00 PM: Bingo organized by Peñas Antes Muertas que Sencillas and Les Doblaes on Sevilla Street.
📅 Wednesday, September 3
- 7:00 PM: Paella Contest at Arenal Beach.
📅 Thursday, September 4
- 8:00 PM: Traditional Valencian Music Festival at Plaza de la Constitución.
📅 Friday, September 5
- 10:00 PM: Concert by the Xàbia Music Band at the harbor.
📅 Saturday, September 6 – Seniors’ Day
- 10:00 AM: Traditional games for seniors at Plaza de la Constitución.
📅 Sunday, September 7 – Day of the Holy Christ of the Sea
- 12:00 PM: Mass in honor of the Holy Christ of the Sea at San Bartolomé Church.
📅 Monday, September 8 – Mare de Déu de Loreto Day
- 12:00 PM: Solemn Eucharist in honor of the Mare de Déu de Loreto with local authorities, the Fishermen’s Brotherhood, 2024 Mayorales and Mayoralesas, committee members, and the town of Xàbia. The mass will be sung by the parish choir. Afterwards, a parade of attendees and a loud MASCLETÀ at Jaume I Avenue.
- 7:00 PM: Parade by the Festival Committee and Music Band to pick up the 2024 Mayorales.
- 8:00 PM: Solemn PROCESSION OF MARE DE DÉU DE LORETO through the streets of Duanes.
- 11:00 PM: Dance with the orchestra SCREAM at Paseo Pintor Joaquín Sorolla.
- 12:30 AM: Spectacular AQUATIC FIREWORKS DISPLAY, closing the festivities in honor of the Mare de Déu de Loreto. Dance continues until 3:00 AM.
Tips to enjoy the festivities
- Dress comfortably: The harbor streets can get crowded; wear comfortable shoes.
- Stay hydrated: August and September in Xàbia can be hot. Bring water and sun protection.
- Respect traditions: Participate respectfully in religious and cultural events.
- Safety first: Keep an eye on your belongings and follow local authorities’ instructions.
Looking for accommodation during the festivities?
At Riu Rau Rentals, we offer a selection of holiday and seasonal rentals in Xàbia, perfect for enjoying the Mare de Déu de Loreto festivities in comfort and style. From seaside houses to apartments with harbor views, we have options for every taste. Visit our website for more information and reservations.
