A reduced Festival of Antique Music, which is now a classic feature of the July fiestas, will go ahead despite the financial constraints caused by the economic crisis.
Amid fears the festival would be cancelled the Mayor of Calasparra, Jesus Navarro, has announced two dates, July 23 and 24, in the Saints Church for concerts using original, traditional musical instruments and performing “antique” music.
Other dates now confirmed for the fiestas held in honour of the patron saints of Calasparra, St Abdon and St Senen, are the Night of the Migas on July 28, the Verbena (country dance) on July 29 and the procession and day of celebrations on July 30, the day of the patron saints.
The Night of the Migas includes a competition for the best Migas and another to see who can throw a grain of rice the furthest. The event is held in the road opposite the Saints Church but traditionally “migas” are cooked all over town on open wood fires.
The Verbena is a country dance with live music which is held in the square at the side of the Saints church. Traditionally there is dancing for all tastes ranging from waltzes and quicksteps through to modern dance. There will be an open air bar.
On July 30 celebrations begin with a mass at the Saints Church and a procession at approximately 8am. It is an early start for those who attend the Verbena, which does not start until about 11pm. However, many people don´t go to bed on the night of the 29th and head for town for an early breakfast after the Verbena and before the procession begins.
Look out for promotional posters for times of these events but expect evening events to start very, very late.
