In Calpe, the patron saint fiestas bring a change of pace as streets fill with music, families and the sound of fireworks.

Honouring the Virgen de las Nieves, the celebrations combine religious traditions with the noisy, colourful fun that makes a Spanish fiesta programme memorable.

The supplied programme begins on July 31 with church bells and loud fireworks, before a myrtle parade opens the festivities.

That evening, the fiesta queen gives a proclamation from the town hall balcony, with live music following in Plaza Mayor.

Early wake-up calls continue through the week, a familiar reminder that fiesta mornings rarely begin quietly.

Families have plenty to plan around on August 1 and 2, when water games and foam parties offer younger children a chance to join in.

Children’s Day on August 2 also brings a musical performance to Plaza Mayor, giving the youngest residents a moment of their own.

On August 3, the fiesta committees take centre stage with children’s activities, a giant paella, a colour celebration and more live music.

The mood shifts on August 4, when a parade and floral offering place devotion to the Virgen de las Nieves at the heart of the day.

A nighttime mascletá follows in Plaza Mayor, adding another burst of sound before the feast day itself.

August 5 centres on Mass and a solemn procession in honour of the patron saint, alongside daytime fireworks and evening celebrations.

The planned Castell a la mar firework display gives residents and visitors a dramatic finale by the sea.

Festivities continue on August 6 for San Salvador, with a traditional pilota match and Mass at the hermitage.

For people travelling from Denia, Javea, Benitachell, Benissa, Moraira, Altea, Albir or Benidorm, Calpe’s programme offers a glimpse of a distinctive local tradition.

Expect crowds, noise and late nights, but also the shared pride that gives the Costa Blanca’s patron saint fiestas their lasting appeal.