Date Published: 25/03/2025

This month's rain has caused Murcia bars and restaurants to lose up to 40% of their income

Murcia’s bars and restaurants have seen turnover drop by up to 40% but they are hoping for a strong Easter come April

Bars and restaurants across the Region of Murcia have been hit hard by the continuous rainfall of the past six or seven weeks, with some businesses reporting turnover down by as much as 40%. What has been a blessing for local agriculture and reservoir levels has been a curse for the hospitality sector, which relies heavily on outdoor terraces and good weather to attract customers.

According to José María Rubiales, president of the Hoytú bar association, the sector has endured an exceptionally long period of bad weather, including four consecutive rainy Saturdays, traditionally one of the busiest days of the week. However, the rain has left establishments shut and terraces empty.

“I have never known a month of March like this,” Rubiales said, adding that turnover in Murcia’s bars and restaurants has fallen by between 30% and 40%, especially compared to last year when Easter was celebrated in March under much more favourable conditions.

Coastal establishments and beachside restaurants have suffered the most. Francisco Garnero, president of Hostecar, explained that restaurants overlooking the sea have been worst affected, with bookings failing to reach 50%, far below the 70% to 80% they usually enjoy during spring weekends.

However, there is hope on the horizon. The hospitality sector is now looking forward to the upcoming Easter celebrations and spring festivals, which are expected to revive bookings and activity with events like the May Crosses in Cartagena and the traditional festivities in Abanilla.

For information about upcoming events in the Region of Murcia, you can visit our What’s On section or see our EVENTS DIARY:

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