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Tuesday June 9 is a public holiday right across the Region of Murcia, celebrating ‘El Día de la Región de Murcia’, or the Region of Murcia Day. Whether you've been here for years or have just arrived, it's worth knowing what the day is all about and how to make the most of it.

 

 

The date marks the anniversary of the approval of the Region of Murcia's Statute of Autonomy in 1982, the moment the Region gained its own institutions and self-governance within Spain. What began as a fairly formal occasion has evolved into something much more community-focused, with street events, live music and cultural activities now very much part of the picture.

 

 

The holiday covers every single municipality in the Region, so whether you're in Cartagena, Lorca, Yecla, Águilas, San Javier or anywhere else, it's a day off. Most shops will be closed and public transport runs on a Sunday schedule, so it's worth checking times in advance.

 

If you're planning to head to the coast, be prepared for crowds as La Manga and the Mar Menor tend to get very busy on days like this.

 

 

The formal centrepiece of the day is the Gold Medal ceremony at the Teatro Circo in Murcia, where the Region's highest honour is awarded to individuals, companies or institutions that have made a significant contribution to the community. This year's highlight is HRH Princess Leonor receiving her medal, although her presentation actually took place on Wednesday June 3 to coincide with her military training at the General Air Academy in San Javier. The Gold Medal of the City has also been approved posthumously for former mayor José Ballesta.

 

 

The real energy is out in the streets. Things kick off the evening before with the Murcia Lírica concert in Plaza Romea, which always draws a big crowd in the city centre. On June 9 itself, the Meeting of Music Bands brings hundreds of musicians out across Murcia, creating a brilliant atmosphere as you wander around. There are also open-air performances, activities along the Segura River and cultural events spread across several locations throughout the day.

 

 

Many of the Region's museums offer free entry on June 9, including the Salzillo Museum, the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts and the MUBAM. They do get busy, particularly in the morning, so it's worth heading out early if that's on your list.

 

 

No Murcia celebration would be complete without great food. From midday onwards the terraces and restaurants fill up, and it's the perfect excuse to try some of the Region's most famous dishes: zarangollo, michirones, meat pies and the ever-popular paparajotes.

 

Image: Instituto Hispánico de Murcia