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The first fiesta of the year is 28 of February, Andalucia Day, ‘Día de Andalucía’ which has a long tradition. 

It is organised by the Residents Association and is held in its HQ, the Teleclub.

The first event of the day is the hoisting of the andalucian flag, which occurs in front of the Teleclub.  After a popular free meal, this fun packed day continues with games and cultural events, lasting well into the night. The list includes: - theatre, regional dances, flamenco, poetry readings, literary competitions and sports events. 

Hundreds of people from near and far come to enjoy the wide variety of local groups ‘grupos culturales’ and famous artists.

The contest of andalucian cookery, now in its fifth year, is looked forward to with great relish!

Dozens of recipes, using only ingredients from Andalucia, compete for the three important prizes.  The three expert judges get to try all the dishes and are envied by all. 

After the awards, everyone is invited to celebrate with a barbeque and bar.  A ham accompanies a huge loaf of bread baked for the occasion. 

The photo shows the judges of the1999 contest, inside the Teleclub.

In July the fiesta of the Virgen del Carmen is celebrated, as in most andalucian fishing villages.

In Benajarafe, it is combined with the local fair.

The image of the virgen is carried on a small throne, from the church to the sea.

It is then placed onboard a fishing boat and paraded along the shore.

At night the typically andalucian fair provides everything that you would expect to see, including entertainment ‘casetas’ and covered carriages.

In October the Romaría de la Virgen del Rosario takes place. Its hermitage is found between the hills of Benajarafe Alto.  The two images symbolise once again the dual character of our village, agriculture and fishing

The image is carried in an ox cart from the church to its hermitage. A whole day of celebration then follows.

The fiesta organising committee, or ‘mayordomos’ is responsible for the organisation of both festivals. At the end of the Romaria, the new committee for the following year is elected.  This ceremony takes place in front of the whole village.

Traditionally, a huge paella is cooked in the open air, for those taking part.

Also our village celebrates Christmas, the three wise men, or the carnival.

The procession of the wise men, ‘Cabalgata de Reyes’, is organised by the Organisation of Fathers and Mothers of the School, for the Residents Association.  The procession moves through the village distributing sweets to the crowds. It ends up at the Teleclub where the children are given their presents.  This is a day full of music, dancing and party.