Festivals in Caravaca de la Cruz
Local festivals of Caravaca de la Cruz
The May Festivals bring together in Caravaca de la Cruz the cult of the Most Holy and True Cross, the Horses of Wine and the Moors and Christians. The official cycle lasts five days, from 1 May to 5, although the pre-holidays begin in March.
Usual tradition
On 1 May, the offering of flowers is celebrated in the Castle-Sanctuary, the bareback horse competition in the Plaza del Hoyo, the entry of bands along the Gran Vía and the exhibition of embroidered cloaks. On 2 May, the harnessing, the tour of the Hoyo neighbourhood, the mass in the Templete-Bañadero, the blessing of the wine and flowers and the Wine Horse race along the castle slope are concentrated. In the following days there are masses, baths and processions of the Cross and parades of the Moorish and Christian sides. The Brotherhood of the Vera Cruz, the Bando de los Caballos del Vino, horsemen's clubs, festive bands, musicians, embroidery artisans, the City Council and public services participate.
Local public holidays in 2026
The resolution of the General Directorate of Labour of Murcia declares in Caravaca de la Cruz Saturday, 2 May and Monday, 4 May as local public holidays in 2026, non-working days, paid and non-recoverable. The celebration from 1 May to 5 is longer than those two days and does not automatically make the rest of the programme a public holiday.
Otras citas culturales
The pre-festivals expand the activity from March with the preparation of clubs, horses, mantles and groups. In 2026, the City Council activated a special security and emergency device from 30 April to 5 May with more than 550 personnel to attend to the routes and the influx of the celebrations.
Detailed information on individual celebrations: