ARCHIVED - March 31 the feast day of the Virgen de los Dolores in Aguilas

A fair and a procession as Águilas honours one of its patrons on Friday of Sorrows

In the seaside town of Águilas in the south-west of the Region of Murcia Viernes de Dolores (Friday of Sorrows) not only marks the beginning of the annual Semana Santa celebrations, it is also the feast day of the patron of the municipality, the Virgen de los Dolores.

As such it is particular important in the annual calendar, and this year the sculpted figure of Virgen de los Dolores will once again be carried through the streets in a procession, wearing a pallium (an ecclesiastical garment worn around the neck and/or breast).

On the evening before day itself a fair will open in Calle Balart, continuing during Friday and featuring gastronomy and music (Aires de Veleta on Thursday, The Jukebox Band on Friday).

The program of events is as follows:

Thursday March 30

21.30: The opening speech of the Semana Santa celebrations is given in the parish church of San José by Episcopal Delegate José Ruiz prior to a concert serenading the Virgin by the Patronato Musical Aguileño.

Friday March 31

11.00: Holy Mass in the church of San José.

12.00: Floral offering to the Virgen de los Dolores, with music from the Agrupación Musical Nuestra Señora Virgen de los Dolores.

19.30: Holy Mass followed by the procession of the figure of the Virgin.

For more local news, events and visiting information visit the home page of Águilas Today.