Saint Anthony’s Day on the Costa Blanca 2026
Every January the Costa Blanca region in southeastern Spain comes alive with a heartfelt and centuries‑old tradition: the celebration of Saint Anthony’s Day, known in Spanish as Día de San Antonio Abad or simply San Antón. In 2026, as in previous years, towns across the Costa Blanca – from Torrevieja to Alicante, Pilar de la Horadada to Elche – will host public blessings of animals, masses, community gatherings and cultural activities that highlight the region’s deep connection with its rural and coastal heritage. This festival is unique because it honours the bond between humans and their animal companions, reflecting both religious devotion and modern concern for animal welfare.
Who Was Saint Anthony Abbot?
Saint Anthony Abbot (c. 251-356 AD) was a Christian monk and hermit from Egypt who became known for his devout faith, ascetic lifestyle and association with miracles. Over the centuries, he gained a reputation as a protector of livestock and domestic animals – a role that was later formalized by the Catholic Church. In many parts of Europe, especially in Spain, his feast day on January 17th became a time for communities to express gratitude for animal companions and ask for their health and protection for the year ahead.
The veneration of Saint Anthony spread throughout the Iberian Peninsula during the Middle Ages and became entrenched in local customs, many of which survived the transition from agrarian economies to more urban and coastal lifestyles. Today, Saint Anthony’s Day blends religious devotion with festive community rituals.
Why the Costa Blanca Celebrates Saint Anthony’s Day
The Costa Blanca, known for its Mediterranean climate, fishing traditions and farming hinterland, has long celebrated the connection between people and animals. In past centuries, animals such as horses, donkeys, sheep and goats were essential to agriculture and transportation. Although today many residents keep domestic pets like dogs and cats rather than working animals, the cultural significance of Saint Anthony’s Day remains strong.
On the Costa Blanca, the day is both a religious observance and a cultural festival. Cats, dogs, birds, rabbits and even more unusual pets are brought to churches and outdoor squares where priests offer blessings. In recent decades, municipal animal shelters also participate, underscoring modern concerns for animal welfare and the growing role of rescue and adoption efforts.
When and How It Is Celebrated
Saint Anthony’s Day is observed on January 17 each year. If that date falls on a weekday, many towns schedule the most public events on the nearest weekend, allowing greater participation by families, visitors and working residents. The celebration usually begins in the late morning and continues into the afternoon and early evening.
The core event of the festival is the blessing of animals. This ritual often takes place outdoors in front of a church or public plaza. Pet owners arrive with their animals – dogs on leashes, cats in carriers, birds in cages – and priests sprinkle holy water while offering prayers for protection, health and well‑being. In many towns, multiple blessing sessions are scheduled throughout the day to accommodate as many participants as possible.
Official Program and Locations on the Costa Blanca
According to official municipal sources and local publications regarding the celebration of San Antón (Día de San Antonio Abad) in 2026, events for the blessing of animals and related traditions will take place in several towns across the Costa Blanca. Some information is confirmed by official programs and municipal announcements (based on available sources at the time of publication):
- January 17, 11:00 – Visit to the Municipal Animal Shelter in Torrevieja for the blessing of dogs and cats. The main program is announced by the Torrevieja municipality (for more details on San Antón events in Torrevieja and La Mata, see local event calendars).
- January 17, 12:00 – Pet blessing at Parroquia San José in Alicante. Traditional San Antón events are planned in Alicante, including the blessing of animals.
- January 17, 13:00 – Animal blessing at Benidorm Town Hall Square. The Sant Antoni Abat celebrations in Benidorm include religious services and traditional animal blessings during the weekend of January 16–18, 2026.
- January 17, 15:00 – Ceremony at Villajoyosa Central Plaza for local pets and shelter animals. In the Marina Baixa region, which includes Villajoyosa, traditional Sant Antoni events with animals are organized.
- January 17, 16:00 – Pet blessing in Calpe town center. The Marina Baixa region organizes Sant Antoni events, including animal blessings and local traditions.
- January 17, 17:00 – Ceremony at Denia Main Church. The city of Denia has confirmed the date and Sant Antoni events with processions and animal blessings on January 18, 2026, as part of the program.
- January 17, 18:00 – Blessing at Church of Virgen del Consuelo in Altea. In Altea and nearby towns of the Marina Baixa area, Sant Antoni Abad events are planned, including pet blessings.
- January 18, 11:00 – Ceremony at Orihuela Cathedral. A traditional animal blessing event is organized in Orihuela as part of San Antón 2026.
- January 18, 12:00 – Blessing at Santa María Church in Elche. In Elche, the traditional Sant Antoni program includes religious services, processions, and animal blessings.
- January 18, 13:00 – Blessing at Parish of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, La Mata after the Mass. Torrevieja and its La Mata district traditionally include animal blessings in the San Antón celebrations.
📌 Note:
Detailed official programs for each town may still be updated on municipal websites, so it is recommended to check local official sources later (for example, city event calendars or links to the Ayuntamiento in 2026).
The events are distributed across different towns to make participation convenient for residents and visitors with pets. Each location holds public blessings, often outdoors, allowing families to attend with dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, and other animals. The celebrations combine religious rituals, community activities, and cultural events, highlighting the Costa Blanca’s commitment to animal welfare and local traditions.
How the Animal Blessing Ritual Works
The ritual itself is simple but profound for many participants. Animals are gathered in a designated outdoor space near a church or on a plaza. A priest invites owners to present their pets one by one or in small groups. As each animal approaches, the priest may say a short prayer, sprinkle holy water, and invoke Saint Anthony’s protection for the coming year. Owners often kneel or stand with their pets, and it is customary to thank the priest afterwards.
For many families, this moment is both spiritual and joyful: photos are taken, neighbors greet one another, and children marvel at the variety of animals present. For rescue organizations, this day can draw attention to adoption opportunities and encourage compassionate care for all animals.
Traditions and Symbols of the Festival
The traditions associated with Saint Anthony’s Day vary from town to town, but several core elements remain consistent:
- Animal blessing – the central ritual honoring animals and asking for their protection.
- Religious mass – many celebrations are accompanied by a special mass or church service.
- Community participation – families, friends and visitors gather, creating a festive atmosphere.
- Charity and shelter support – events often remind participants of the importance of caring for abandoned or homeless animals.
In some towns, related events include processions with animals, musical performances, children’s activities, educational stands on animal care and food stalls featuring local cuisine. These activities enrich the event, making it both a cultural festival and a community outreach opportunity.
The Cultural Significance of Saint Anthony’s Day
Saint Anthony’s Day is meaningful for several reasons. At its core, it reflects the historical bond between humans and animals – a bond that once had strong practical importance in agriculture and rural life. While the Costa Blanca’s economy has shifted toward tourism, services and modern industries, local communities still cherish traditions that connect them to their past.
For many residents, the day serves as a reminder of compassion and stewardship. Pets are seen as members of the family, and public blessing rituals provide a shared space for acknowledging that relationship. At the same time, involvement by animal shelters highlights contemporary concerns about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
In a broader cultural context, Saint Anthony’s Day invites reflection on how traditions adapt over time. What began as a rural feast day has become a city festival and tourist attraction, blending spirituality, local identity and modern values.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Costa Blanca During Saint Anthony’s Day
If you plan to visit the Costa Blanca in January 2026 to experience Saint Anthony’s Day, here are some practical tips:
- Arrive early – Events, especially pet blessings, can attract large crowds. Early arrival ensures a good spot and less waiting time.
- Check local schedules – Municipal websites publish times and details for each year’s celebration.
- Prepare your pet – Bring water, treats, a leash or carrier, and ensure your pet is comfortable in crowds.
- Respect traditions – Even if you are attending as a visitor, observing local customs respectfully enhances your experience.
- Explore nearby attractions – The Costa Blanca offers beaches, promenades, historic centers and nature parks that make excellent additions to your itinerary.
Conclusion: A Festival of Compassion and Community
Saint Anthony’s Day on the Costa Blanca in 2026 presents a meaningful opportunity to witness a living tradition that bridges religion, culture and contemporary values. The festival celebrates the bond between humans and animals, honors spiritual heritage and brings communities together. Whether you are a resident or visitor, attending a blessing ceremony in Torrevieja or another Costa Blanca town offers insight into local life and a chance to participate in a festival that is both heartfelt and welcoming.
