The coastal communities of Sabinillas and El Castillo de la Duquesa will once again celebrate one of the most deeply rooted traditions of the summer calendar – the feast of the Virgen del Carmen, patron saint of sailors and fishing communities.
Celebrated each year on 16 July, the Virgen del Carmen holds a special place in towns and villages along the Spanish coast. For generations, fishermen and seafaring families have looked to her as a protector of those who work and travel at sea. In many coastal communities, her feast day is marked with Mass, processions, flowers, music and, most symbolically, the image of the Virgin being taken out to sea.
In Manilva, the tradition remains especially strong in both Sabinillas and Castillo de la Duquesa, where the celebrations combine religious devotion with the atmosphere of a popular summer verbena.
In Sabinillas, the programme on Thursday 16 July begins at midday with a Holy Mass in honour of the Virgen del Carmen in Plaza Costa del Sol, sung by the Choir of the Municipal School of Music. At 1 pm, the coronation of the junior and children’s queens and ladies will take place, adding a festive and family-focused element to the day.
One of the most moving moments will come at 8 pm, when the image of the Virgen del Carmen is carried in procession before being embarked to travel along the coastline of the municipality. The procession will be accompanied by the Agrupación Musical Veracruz de Estepona, creating a powerful and emotional scene as land, sea and tradition come together.
The evening in Sabinillas will continue from 10.30 pm with music and dancing, featuring performances by the groups Latidos and Compás Flamenco, accompanied by resident DJ Pájaro. The celebrations promise a lively night in honour of one of the most important figures in the town’s maritime heritage.
In Castillo de la Duquesa, the celebrations also take place on Thursday 16 July, beginning at 8 am with cheerful dianas and pasacalles performed by the Charanga de Cádiz. At 6.30 pm, a Santa Misa Rociera will be held in honour of the “Patrona de los Marineros” in the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, sung by the Choir of the Municipal School of Music.
Following the Mass, the image will be carried in procession through the streets of El Castillo, accompanied by the Municipal Band of Music. The route will end at Puerto de la Duquesa, where the image will be embarked to travel along the coast, continuing one of the most distinctive and cherished traditions of the Virgen del Carmen celebrations.
Later that night, the focus will move to Parque del Huerto, where acclaimed Sevillian artist Manuel Orta will perform at 10.30 pm. Known for his long career in flamenco and especially in sevillanas, his performance will be followed by music from Planeta 80, who will bring classics from the golden age of pop as well as more contemporary favourites.
The festivities in El Castillo will continue on Saturday 18 July, with popular games in Plaza Miramar at 11 am, followed by a traditional moraga in Parque del Huerto at 7 pm. The evening will close with more live entertainment from Orquesta Vértigo Show and Compás Flamenco from 10 pm, ensuring a festive end to the celebrations.
The Virgen del Carmen festivities are much more than a summer event. They are a celebration of identity, memory and community, reflecting Manilva’s close relationship with the sea and the generations of families whose lives have been shaped by it.
