Festivity of Saint Anthony Abbot in Valencia

Feast of Saint Anthony Abbot: January 17th

On January 17th, experience the blessing of the animals in Valencia, a tradition full of life, bonfires, and parades that honors the protector of our pets in the heart of the city.

Valencia celebrates the patron saint of animals

Every January, Calle Sagunto in Valencia becomes the epicenter of one of the most endearing festivals: Saint Anthony Abbot. Known as the "porquet" (little pig), this saint is the protector of animals. The city immerses itself in a celebration that blends the sacred and the popular, where thousands of Valencians come with their pets to receive the traditional blessing. From more conventional pets, such as dogs, cats, and even horses, to exotic species.

Program of events

Origin and Tradition: The Bonfire and the Porquet

The festival in Valencia has its roots in the ancient devotion of farmers and livestock breeders. The ritual begins the night before with the traditional San Antoni Bonfire, which lights up the Valencian night symbolizing purification. The tradition of the "porquet" (little pig) recalls the saint's life in the desert and remains alive today through the Brotherhood of Saint Anthony Abbot, which organizes the events in the historic Sagunto neighborhood.

The Cremà of the bonfire

On the eve of the big day, starting at 8:00 PM, the opening mass of the festival takes place, followed by the Procession of the Saint at 9:00 PM, which travels through the neighborhood from the Parish of Saint Anthony Abbot to the site of the burning.

At 9:30 PM, the Cremà of the San Antoni Bonfire is held, located between Maximiliano Thous and Ministro Luis Mayans streets. The purifying fire consumes the bonfire during a spectacular fireworks display, marking the start of the celebrations in honor of the protector of animals.

The blessing and the great parade

The highlight is the Solemn Blessing of Animals on January 17th. After the mass in honor of the saint, an endless parade begins in front of the Parish of Saint Anthony Abbot. First, domestic pets pass by, followed by the spectacular parade of horses, horse-drawn carriages, and mounted units of the Valencia Local Police and the Civil Guard. It is a unique display of equestrian tradition that travels down Calle Sagunto under a rain of carob beans and blessed bread rolls.

Mercat del Porrat: Craftsmanship and Flavor

During the festival days, the traditional San Antoni Market (or Mercat del Porquet) is set up. Here you can find handcrafted products, typical Valencian gastronomy, and the famous blessed bread rolls. It is the perfect place to enjoy the festive atmosphere and pick up a souvenir of this truly authentic celebration.