Villajoyosa's festival of Moors and Christians has been running for over 250 years, commemorating an event in 1538. Berber pirates, led by one Zale-Arraez, tried to attack the town but Santa Marta came to the rescue by causing a flash flood which wiped out the enemy fleet. Santa Marta became patron saint and the fiesta became an annual fixture. There are marches and processions of costumed 'armies' in the days leading up to 28 July, when the spectacular landing is held. Crowds of people arrive at the beach as early as five in the morning. While the Christians prepare their artillery, over 30 Moorish vessels draw near. They make landfall and a battle ensues, spreading to the foot of the castle, which is eventually taken by the Moors. There is a great deal of ceremonial exchange before (not to give too much of the story away) events reach a happy conclusion. Gastronomic competitions, open-air dances and firework displays form part of the celebrations.

Times
Various.