San Juan Seafaring Procession

This original and unique procession takes place on 24 June, the feast day of Saint John. The main event, a centuries-old tradition, runs through the most central streets of the fishing village of L'Arena, which on this date are full of atmosphere and joy.

One of the most emotional moments of this procession is the blessing of the waters of the Bay of Biscay to mark the start of the tuna fishing season. At that moment, the sailors carrying Saint John, Saint Telmo and the Virgin of Carmen approach the port so that the priest can bless the waters.

The procession is accompanied by the sounds of bagpipe bands and children who have celebrated their First Communion this year, and differs from other seafaring processions in that all the people who take part in it are dressed in the summer uniform of the Navy, a fact that has its roots in an ancient tradition and which gives a very different air to this festival.

The beauty of L'Arena and the surroundings of the Nalón estuary and Los Quebrantos beach complete a magnificent setting for this celebration.