August 14th and 15th
Among the most significant events of the Moors and Christians Festivities, the gala cortège stand out. The Children's Gala Parade on August 14th and the grand day of the Moors and Christians Festivities, the Grand Gala Cortège on August 15th.
The Grand Gala Cortège
In the days following the disembarkation and before the grand parade, Dénia has witnessed skirmishes between the Moorish and Christian troops. After the Moorish troops captured Dénia, a truce established a coexistence agreement between the two communities. However, the situation deteriorated, and the Christians sought a way to reconquer lost territory. The Grand Parade is a highlight of the festivities.It represents a show of strength before an impending battle. Throughout the year, both the Moorish and Christian captaincies have worked diligently to proudly represent the “boato” of their "filà." It embodies the very history of the "filà" holding the Captaincy.
This impressive parade, held on Marqués de Campo Street, begins with the entrance of the Christian Captaincy, escorted by their Christian warrior forces, each led by the Primer Trò of their respective filà. Next, the Moorish faction presents itself with an equally extravagant display. Within the procession, the Captaincy holding the title for that year can decide whether to lead the parade or bring up the rear, for both the Christian and Moorish sides. Then, it's the turn of the "filà" that will assume the Captaincy in the upcoming year.
The Christian faction leads the parade, as their objective is to conquer the city of Dénia. Thus, their parade becomes a demonstration of power, a way to showcase their troops, squads, weapons, and most luxurious attire. The majestic display of the Captaincy symbolizes the Christian determination to reconquer the city.
Subsequently, the Moorish counter-replica is presented, showcasing their strength through their forces, weaponry, and imposing attire. They march on their territory, defending what they consider theirs: the city of Dénia. It's a display of power from both sides, each trying to impress the other in an attempt to avoid armed conflict and compel surrender.
Children's Gala Parade
On August 14th, starting at 7:00 PM, the children's parade takes place on Marqués de Campos Street and its surroundings. Children from different Moorish and Christian "filaes" proudly wear their finest attire and march orderly to the rhythm of the procession.
The Boato
The "boato" is a moving story told during the gala parade and is related to the "filà" holding the Captaincy. Each year, the "boato" changes, giving rise to new narratives that both the Moorish and Christian captaincies aspire to convey along their route through the streets of Dénia. In other words, it encompasses the entirety of the presentation showcased within the framework of the gala parade, including all costumes and accompaniments such as floats, horses, music, dance, and much more. For the captaincy-holding "filà," the "boato" represents the most significant financial investment and varies based on the "filà's" importance and the collection made throughout the previous year.
The Primer Trò
The Primer Trò is the highest representative position within a Filà; equivalent to the president in the context of the Fallas. Typically, this position is rotated (unless otherwise specified) and has a duration of one festival season. The selection of the Primer Trò is carried out through a voting process by the festeros (members) of the Filà.