Festivals and events in Elche all year round

If you’re after a city where every season brings its own cultural plot twist, Elche is your spot. From traditions recognised as UNESCO World Heritage to food fairs and concerts that keep you moving, there’s no rest here—unless you want it. Get ready for a calendar packed with festivals, music, art and Mediterranean culture. Plus, getting to Elche by train with OUIGO is as easy as pie.

Calendar of events and festivals in Elche

Elche transforms with each season:

• Spring: Food fairs, cultural activities and Semana Santa ilicitana.
• Summer: Fiestas patronales and their full-on festive energy.
• Autumn: Traditional markets and music festivals.
• Winter: Theatre, exhibitions and a calmer vibe with plenty of plans.

Every month is a new chance to see the city from a different angle.

Tips for attending events in Elche

• Book ahead: accommodation, tickets and transport can sell out—especially for headline events like Misteri d’Elx (sacro‑lyric mystery play) or the fiestas patronales.
• Check official dates: calendars vary slightly year to year.
• Plan your transport: travelling by train with OUIGO drops you at Estación Elche ELX AV, a short walk from the centre.
• Get walking: Elche is perfect on foot, but if you need to go further, urban buses cover longer hops.
• Dress for the event: for processions or long routes, wear comfy shoes; for outdoor gigs, pack a cap and sunscreen; for fiestas, get party-ready—but keep it practical.

Main festivals and events

Misteri d’Elx 

Dates: 14 and 15 August (main performances), with key rehearsal dates beforehand. 

Location: Basílica de Santa María. 

Description: A unique, centuries‑old sacro‑lyric drama and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Between its angelic performances and soaring music, you’ll be left speechless. 

OUIGO tip: book early—and if you’re a culture lover, consider attending rehearsals to feel the magic from the inside.

Fiestas patronales de Elche 

Dates: 5–15 August. 

Description: Parades, mascletàs (daytime firecracker barrages), concerts and the dazzling Nit de l’Albà (city‑wide fireworks night)—a spectacle that turns the city into pure light. 

Location: mainly across the historic centre and along the Vinalopó river. 

OUIGO tip: find a great viewpoint for Nit de l’Albà and don’t miss the local delights at the food fairs that pop up during these days.

Fairs and markets 

Highlights: Feria de San Andrés and food fairs throughout the year. 

Location: various squares in the historic centre and Paseo de la Estación. 

Star products: from local crafts to regional wines—and classic Illicitano dates (from Elche). 

OUIGO tip: bring a reusable bag (you’ll likely use it) and don’t skip the tastings at gourmet fairs.

Concerts and shows 

Dates: all year. 

Venues: Gran Teatro de Elche, fairgrounds and open‑air spots like Plaça de Baix. 

Description: from intimate theatre shows to big open‑air concerts, Elche’s music scene has something for everyone. 

OUIGO tip: buy tickets in advance and arrive with time to avoid queues at the biggest events.

Other standout events 

Festival Medieval de Elche 

Dates: late October. 

Description: music, theatre, dance and a brilliant medieval market take over the streets of the centre. 

OUIGO tip: browse the craft stalls to bag a special keepsake.

Sports events: the half marathon and local tournaments are great for active visitors—check dates on official local sports channels.

Travel to Elche by train

OUIGO makes it easy: the best‑value tickets, multiple timetables and direct arrival at Estación Elche ELX AV, just minutes from key sights. Check our website to secure the best price and get set for a seamless escape. Book your train here.

FAQs about events in Elche

Which events are unmissable in Elche? 

Misteri d’Elx, the fiestas patronales and Festival Medieval are three not‑to‑miss dates.

What should I wear to an event in Elche? 

Comfy shoes for longer walks and season‑appropriate layers: light in summer and a bit warmer if you’re going in winter.

Where do the biggest events take place?

 In the historic centre (Basílica de Santa María, Plaça de Baix) and open spaces like Paseo de la Estación.

Is visiting Elche in high season a good idea? 

Absolutely. Major events like the fiestas patronales are the perfect time to feel the city’s soul—just make sure you book ahead.

With this guide to festivals and events in Elche, all that’s left is to plan your visit. Let the magic of its traditions, music and culture wrap around you. And remember: OUIGO gets you there and back without the fuss! 🎶✨