The traditional blessing of animals is one of the most massive acts and one of the most traditional in Xàbia and its surroundings. Sant Antoni (San Antonio) is the patron saint of animals, which is why this act of blessing has been carried out since our ancestors.
In Xàbia, this act has double relevance, and it is that it is celebrated on two occasions: one in the historic center, and another in the fishing district of Duanes de la Mar.
Next you have an index with all the points that we are going to deal with.
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When is?
The festival of Sant Antoni is celebrated every January 17, patron saint's day, although the festive events usually take place days before and after this date.
Where is it celebrated?
The act of blessing is one of the most massive of these festivities. Hundreds of people come with their pets to the two locations where this traditional act of the festivities in honor of Sant Antoni Abad takes place.
Historical Center
In this urban center of Xàbia, the organization of the blessing of animals is in charge of the Penya El Tirasset. The blessing usually takes place on the Sunday closest to the 17th, whether it is the one before or after. The event takes place in the Plaza de la Constitución around 13:00 p.m., after the cavalry parade. In 2024, the blessing in the old town will be on Sunday, January 14.
Location
Duanes de la Mar
On the other hand, the blessing of animals in the fishing district of Duanes de la Mar takes place on the same day of the festival. On this occasion, the event is organized by La Penya Burrera and takes place on the Paseo Marítimo de la Grava beach, Paseo Joaquín Sorolla. The schedule is usually from 13:00 p.m., after the mass in honor of Sant Antoni.
