One of my favourite events in Spain, when my son was younger, was the Medieval market in Orihuela.
In 2018, the Orihuela Medieval Market will take place the 2nd, 3rd and 4th February. It is one of the biggest medieval markets in Spain and covers an area of approx. 5 kilometres.
Once you get to Orihuela it is not difficult to park or to find it, as over 400 stalls are set up in the central area between the Santo Domingo seminary and the Church of Santiago. Exhibitions of falconry and hawking, Castellers (human towers), an Arabic souk, dancing, fire eating, food tasting, equestrian tournaments, arts and crafts workshops, weaponry displays and many other activities are part of the programme.
Among the sights are men, women and children dressed in traditional costume selling their wares. There is something for everyone: cakes, tapas, stew, boiled octopus, Arabic tea, wine tastings, as well as wood carvers, handmade jewellery, furniture and toys; workshops, plays, firing ranges, jousting, and horses and farm animals.
Orihuela’s vast historic heritage makes it the ideal place for this cultural activity. It is almost as if the town is transformed to medieval times and there is a wonderful atmosphere. The opening hours are usually Friday 12.00-24.00, Saturday 12.00 to 24.00 and Sunday 11.00 to 21.00.
This year will be the 20th time that Orihuela has revisited its past and is sure to be quite special. Younger children absolutely love a day out here.