Sant Antoni de la Mar: a landmark weekend in La Pobla de Farnals
La Pobla de Farnals will once again host one of its most emblematic weekends with the celebration of Sant Antoni de la Mar on the beach, on 21 and 22 February. The festivities are organised by the Cofradía de Sant Antoni de la Mar, led by Sergi Saborit and María José García, with the support of the La Pobla de Farnals Town Council.
This well-established tradition celebrates its eighth edition this year and has seen remarkable growth in recent years.
The programme begins on Friday 20 February with preparatory work, including the construction of stages and the bonfire. On Saturday 21 February, activities start at 9:00 am, followed by the traditional Entrà del Pi at 12:00 pm, a unique ritual involving the dragging of branches to build the bonfire.
The bonfire is topped by Tonet, a pig-shaped ninot created by local artist Víctor Moreno. At 2:00 pm, a paella will be served. In the evening, a mass in honour of Saint Anthony Abbot will take place, followed by the burning of the bonfire and fireworks.
Sunday 22 February, the main day of the festival, begins at 8:00 am with the lighting of the fires. A total of 14 large cooking pots will be prepared under the supervision of Rafael Borrás Arapio and served from 2:00 pm onwards.
One of the highlights is the blessing of the animals, with horses, pets and other animals taking part. The festival concludes with a flamenco afternoon by David Muñiz.
