If you thought that summer could get busy, then try finding a room in Almuñécar during these explosive August fiestas, and more precisely during the second week of the month leading up to the 15th which is the Día de la Virgen, as it's known locally. This is in honour of the Virgen de la Antigua who has been patroness of the town since it was taken by Christians forces during the Reconquest in 1489.

These celebrations come during peak holiday period for the whole country and the town is packed with around 130,000 visitors, most of whom take to the streets to see the fireworks on the night of the 15th which is also Día de la Asunción (Assumption) and a national holiday.

Throughout the week there is a fair held on the fairground at the entrance to town. There are attractions for the kids, food and drink for the adults and enough music for most of the province. And when the sun goes down, it's even louder than a discoteque (because there are atleast ten) and vibrant enough to keep most people dancing till the early hours in a non-stop party atmosphere. Cultural and sporting events are also organised in the Casa de Cultura, Majuelo Park and around town.

On the night of the 15th, the statue of the Virgen is taken in a procession from the church to the seafront and put on a boat which leaves from San Cristóbal beach. It then makes the journey around the rocks to the main beach, accompanied by dozens of boats both participating and watching.

When the Virgin's boat passes the rocks in front of the town, aimed to be about 23.00 hr, the half-hour fireworks spectacular begins. It is truly a grand affair with pyrotechnic displays emanating from the castle, Peñón del Santo (Cross) and rocks, beach and even from the water.

Once back on dry land, the procession takes the Virgin back to the church while, for everyone else, the party continues until late.

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