Event Details
What Is the Moros y Cristianos Festival in Alcoy?
The Moros y Cristianos festival in Alcoy is considered the largest and oldest celebration of its kind in the world. It commemorates the legendary battle of 1276, in which Saint George is said to have helped the Christian troops defeat the Moorish attackers. Since 1980 the festival has held the title Fiesta de Interés Turístico Internacional (Festival of International Tourist Interest). Around 28 Filaes (traditional festive associations) parade through the old town of Alcoy in the Alicante province wearing elaborate historical costumes.
When Are the Moros y Cristianos 2027 in Alcoy?
After being moved to a weekend in 2026, the festival returns to its traditional dates in 2027: from 22 to 24 April (Thursday to Saturday). 23 April, the feast day of the city's patron saint George, remains the central day of celebration. Since the date depends on the timing of Easter, the exact schedule can occasionally shift slightly.
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Program: The Trilogía Festera
The heart of the festival is the Trilogía Festera, three consecutive days each with its own character. On the Day of the Entradas, the Christian troops parade through the city from around 10:30 AM, followed by the Moorish troops from around 5:00 PM in an hours long, colorful procession. On the Day of San Jorge, processions and religious ceremonies honor the city's patron saint. The festival closes with the Day of the Alardo, featuring loud musket volleys as both sides symbolically fight for control of the city. The evening before the trilogy, the Day of the Musicians already sets the mood with band parades and the festival anthem.
Entry and Seating
Access to the streets and general attendance are free of charge. Chairs are traditionally set up for rent along the parade route; visitors who want a comfortable seat buy one in advance, while those who watch standing pay nothing. Due to high demand, early booking of seats and accommodation is strongly recommended.
Getting to Alcoy and Visitor Tips
- Alcoy is located about 55 kilometers north of Alicante; the easiest way to get there is by car, regional bus, or train via Xàtiva or Alicante.
- Hotels and guesthouses in Alcoy book out months in advance during the festival, so early reservations are advisable.
- The Passeig de Cervantes, the main route through the old town, offers a great view of the parades.
- To see the costumes and marching bands up close, arrive several hours before the Entradas begin to secure a good spot.
- Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the festivities spread across the entire old town.
