The events marking the anniversary of the Donation of the Villa of Calasparra to the Order of St John of Jerusalem will transport the town and residents back in time to the Medieval Age.
In order to take part or merely join in the spirit of the events residents are encouraged to wear medieval costumes. At some events, such as the procession and the dinner, costumes are obligatory. Costumes can be rented or bought from the shop, Pepe Caro, Avda. Juan R. Jiménez, 35, from May 31.
On the weather front it looks as though the sun will shine on the festivities with temperatures in the mid 20’s.
The full programme is:
FRIDAY JUNE 7
8pm Floral Offering in the Saints area when the Rondalla will sing at the mass.
8pm Official reception at the Town Hall for the twinning committees from Riorges and Donzdorf.
9pm The inauguration of Medieval Market with more than 40 artesan and gastromical stalls plus street music and theatre and children´s corner.
9.20pm Procession from the Rice Grower´s Fountain.
9.40pm Coronation of the King and Queen of the festivities in the Plaza de la Corredera.
10pm Grand Medieval Dinner. Tickets available from Peluquería Imagen, Anais, Ferretería Navarro, Hogar Caro and the Tourist Office.
SATURDAY JUNE 8
The Medieval Market throughout the day.
12 midday Children´s blessing.
8pm Mass at St Peter´s Church with Calasparra Choir.
9pm Kissing the hand of the Our Lady of Hope of the Sanctuary.
SUNDAY JUNE 9
7am Mass and pilgrimage back to the Sanctuary.
Medieval Market during the day.
12 midday Twinning Act at the Municipal Auditorium
9pm Grand Procession with delegations of “moros and cristianos” from Archena, Alcaraz and Murcia.
Itinerary: Gran Vía Vieja- Ctra. De Mula-Avda. 1º de Mayo- Plaza de la Corredera- C/ Salzillo- C/ Lavador-C/ Poeta Miguel Hernández-Avda. Juan R. Jiménez- Plaza de la Corredera- Avda. 1ª de Mayo-Auditorium.
9.45pm Theatrical reenactment of the Donation in the Municipal Auditorium followed by the ceremonial presentation of the keys of Calasparra to the Esperanza Rice Cooperative which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.
