SAN SEBASTIAN | Running of the bulls marks revival of town's patron saint

The return of the running of the bulls to the centre of town after an absence of some 20 years marks a renewed interest in keeping alive the traditional celebrations which honour San Sebastián, the town's patron saint. Reverence was pushed aside on the arrival of the image of Jesús Nazareno in the mid-16th century and in recent years celebrations had been rather low-key. However 2012 marks a special event for Jávea in the 400th anniversary of independence after the town was awarded the title of "villa real" by Felipe III. So, who is San Sebastián and why is he the patron saint of Jávea? And what will be going on the historic centre as the town looks to honour him? Our (almost) definitive guide will give a insight into a special weekend for Jávea.

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FOGUERES 2012 | "It's my turn now!"

FOGUERES 2012 | "A lot can be achieved"

New Fogueres queen Ángela Cholbi Mulet is a petite, shy girl who describes herself as "like any other". Indeed, like many of her fellow students, although she is studying for a diploma in Science at the I.E.S. No.1 in the port, Ángela is still not quite sure what the future holds for her. Travelling is likely to feature though as she lists a desire to journey amongst her lists of likes which include listening to music, being with her friends and going to the movies. But for 2012, her main objective will be to preside over a memorable Fogueres fiesta against a background of economic crisis. Ángela has been part of the celebrations since her early childhood, first with her parents and then with her friends: "much like any other Xabiero". Her family can already boast plenty of experience with cousin Martha elected as president of the Quintà 2003 and sister Noria serving the second lady-in-waiting of the Quintà 2010. "It's my turn now!" she said.

The Presidents of La Quinta have a hard year of work ahead of them as the austerity measures aimed at economic recovery begin to take effect. However Mari Ángeles Caballero Mata and José David Bou Sala are excited by the challenge ahead of them after their elections as presidents of the Quintà 2012 just before Christmas. Mari is currently studying at I.E.S. No.1 in the port where she is working towards a diploma in Humanities. In her free time, she has been an instructor for many years with the Moviment Junior Nuestra Señora de Loreto where she works with young children and adolescents. Born and bred in the port, her favourite place in town is La Grava beach. José David has been studying Vehicle Electromechanics. In his free time he likes playing basketball and listening to music. He also belongs to the Centre Artístic Musical de Xàbia and plays the tenor saxophone which he enjoys playing in the parades, concerts and especially in the charanga - the lively brass band that is so synonymous with the Spanish fiesta.

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