Event: Spain

Feria de Palenciana

When:	14 - 17 Aug 2008 (annual)
Where:	Palenciana

The community of Palenciana holds a festival in honour of the Virgen del Carmen, who is believed to have protected the town from total destruction over 160 years ago. Activities include live bands, fireworks, floral tributes, bell ringing and processions.

In 1834 there was a storm which destroyed everything in its path all the way down to Malaga, except for Palenciana. As a result, the small town annually pays tribute to the Virgen del Carmen for protecting them from the devastating consequences of that day.

Every year an influential group of families or friends are given the title Los Hermanos Mayores and receive the honour of organising the festival. The preparations take the best part of the year preceding the event and include everything from fund-raising to selecting the beauty queen candidates.

The festivities begin with the "announcement" that includes the coronation of the beauty queen and dames of honour, as well as the naming of the Hermanos Mayores. The following days feature a multitude of performances: flamenco, comedy, pop concerts, orchestras, famous artists and much more. The highlight is the procession honouring la Virgen del Carmen and the feria ends with a traditional paella and a splendid fireworks display.