October 7: Our Lady of the Rosary
This is the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, which is the
patron saint of the town of Rota and Cádiz. It is a feast in Rota, but will not
be celebrated in other local towns. In Rota, the feast is celebrated with a
week of activities, parades, and a ceremony that crowns a young woman “queen” of the celebration. Up to twenty other young women (damas) in festive dresses will be
recognized as her court, and there will be a parade and a dancing celebration
in the Plaza d’España. There has always been one lady representing the Spanish
Navy, and another lady to represent the American military (usually a high school
student). The whole community can be involved in this event. On October 7, no matter what day of the week it is, there will be a special Mass and religious procession at the church of Our Lady of the O.
Rota's town patron is symbolized on the town's crest, which is a tower surrounded by the rosary. Look for it on their green flag and on public buildings.
Rota's town patron is symbolized on the town's crest, which is a tower surrounded by the rosary. Look for it on their green flag and on public buildings.
For a full list of public events and activities, check out Rota's tourism page (in English):
Remember that because of the celebration, local businesses may be closed, and Rota schools may have the day off.
