Cocentaina All Saints Fair
The Tots Sants Fair transforms the town centre of Cocentaina into an extensive commercial, cultural and festive space. Its medieval origin, the diversity of sectors and the participation of merchants, artisans and local entities make it one of the great historical fairs of the Valencian Community.
Usual date and duration
The fair is held around 1 November, All Saints' Day. It usually lasts for several days around that date; The calendar, schedules and opening of the different spaces are specified in each edition.
1 November is a national public holiday. The other days of the fair do not acquire that condition because they are part of the contest.
An enclosure spread throughout Cocentaina
The Fira occupies squares, avenues and streets of the urban area. The Plaça del Pla and the Palau Comtal are part of its institutional core, while the commercial sectors, thematic markets, gastronomic spaces and attractions are distributed throughout different signposted areas.
For each edition, the organisation publishes plans, access, parking, transportation and location of exhibitors, data that should be consulted before visiting.
Medieval origin
The fair was born in 1346 thanks to the privilege granted by Pere el Cerimoniós, Pedro IV of Aragon and II of Valencia. In its beginnings it was a regional agricultural and livestock market, useful for exchange between producers, merchants and buyers.
As the centuries passed, its location, date and duration changed. At the end of the 18th century it was linked to Todos los Santos, a name that it retains. Its ability to adapt made it possible to maintain traditional commerce and incorporate new products, services and forms of exhibition.
Sectores y mercados
- Maquinaria agrícola e industrial, automoción, hogar y servicios profesionales.
- Artesanía tradicional, productos agroalimentarios, degustación y gastronomía.
- Medieval market, Arab souk and porrat Valencia, with trades and products set.
- Comercio local, asociaciones, turismo, innovación, deporte y medio ambiente.
- Atracciones mecánicas, propuestas infantiles y venta ambulante autorizada.
Acts and traditions
The reading of Fira's Privilegi recalls the founding document and occupies a symbolic place in the institutional opening. The offer is completed, depending on the edition, with exhibitions, concerts, dances, street theater, craft demonstrations, gastronomic activities, contests and sports events.
The walk between commercial areas and markets is an essential part of the experience. Neighborhoods, establishments, associations and municipal staff participate in the organisation and reception of an influx that multiplies the ordinary activity of Cocentaina.
Reconocimientos
The Tots Sants Fair is declared Festival of International Tourist Interest y Bien de Interés Cultural Inmaterial. Estas distinciones reconocen tanto su proyección turística como sus valores históricos, comerciales, identitarios y participativos.