The festive day, aimed at strengthening the identity of the Alpujarra Almeriense, will include music, horse racing, and a popular paella by the Andarax river. As a new feature this year, the Fondón City Council is encouraging attendees to wear traditional regional clothing, offering a free meal to those who participate in traditional attire.
The official program begins at 10:45 AM with a parade from the Plaza de Fondón to the Ermita de San Marcos. Following the pilgrimage mass, the religious images will be transported by mules to the grove for the offering. Beyond the festivities, the event has a charitable purpose: proceeds from the sale of accessories such as scarves and hats will go toward the restoration of the altarpiece at the Church of Fondón, a notable 16th-century Mudejar architectural gem.
The afternoon will feature equestrian traditions with horse ribbon races at 4:30 PM. Afterward, the pilgrimage will return to the hermitage, while the town square will host children's activities and live music to conclude the day starting at 10:00 PM.
