The Moors and Christians festivities in Calp, held in honor of the Santíssim Crist de la Suor and officially recognized as an Autonomous Community Tourist Interest event, have turned October into one of the town’s busiest times of year. For several days, Calp becomes a vast open-air stage where tradition, devotion, and spectacle come together, drawing thousands of visitors from across Spain and reaching very high occupancy rates (over 90% in hotels, with peaks close to 95%).
The celebration stands out for its packed program: the Opening Proclamation (Pregón) and Parade of Bands, the spectacular Moorish and Christian Parade with lavish costumes and pageantry, and the Landing (Desembarco) at dawn on Arenal-Bol beach, featuring gunfire from arquebuses and the smell of gunpowder. The most distinctive event is El Miracle, a theatrical performance that commemorates the 1744 episode in which, according to tradition, the Christ of the Suor saved the town from a Barbary attack; it is experienced as the most moving and symbolic moment of the festivities.
Beyond its cultural value, the festival is a major economic driver for local hospitality and businesses, boosting restaurant spending and giving Calp significant media exposure. With both national and international visitors returning year after year, Calp is increasingly seen not only as a sun-and-sea destination, but also as a leading spot for cultural and festival tourism on the Costa Blanca.
https://www.elmira.es/articulo/turismo/calp-destino-historia-fiesta-moros-cristianos-atraen-miles-visitantes-toda-espana/20251118113541536427.html