Where are the crowds? Santa Ponsa venue change sparks criticism from community

A long-time visitor to Santa Ponsa has criticised this year’s Fiestas del Rocío after the celebrations were moved from their traditional beachfront setting, claiming the change left the resort noticeably quieter and disappointed many regular attendees.

The reader contacted Euro Weekly News following last weekend’s festival, saying they felt compelled to speak out after attending the event, which has become a popular fixture in Santa Ponsa’s annual calendar. The Fiestas del Rocío, inspired by the famous Andalusian pilgrimage, typically bring together live music, dancing, food stalls and traditional dress, attracting residents and visitors alike.

According to the resident, who says they have attended the celebrations for around 20 years, relocating the festivities from the usual beach area to a nearby car park dramatically changed the atmosphere.

“I’ve been coming to the two main fiestas in the resort for 20 years now and am still shocked at what I witnessed,” they wrote.

Comparison photos highlight concerns

The reader also supplied comparison photographs from this year and last year’s event, saying they illustrate the difference in visitor numbers.

They described arriving in the town centre at around 6.30pm on Saturday and said the area was “deserted”, adding that the decision to move the celebrations “simply beggars understanding.”

The resident said they could have listed several organisational issues but felt the most obvious impact was the lack of people in the resort’s main streets during what is usually one of Santa Ponsa’s busiest weekends of the year.

Businesses reportedly felt the impact

The reader also claimed nearby businesses appeared to suffer as a result. They said the restaurant where they traditionally dine during the festivities was only half full, despite usually being surrounded by bustling market stalls and crowds of visitors.

“I chatted to the owner. It was very clear that she wasn’t happy with the so-called arrangements,” the reader said.

The email concluded with a call for the organising committee to reflect on this year’s event, with the resident arguing that “the big loser in this disaster has got to be Santa Ponsa itself.”

What do you think?

The comments represent the views of one festivalgoer. Euro Weekly News would be interested to hear from other residents, visitors and local businesses about their experiences of this year’s Fiestas del Rocío and perhaps next year, the community voice can be heard.