The Blessing of the Mules

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A June custom in Arles-sur-Tech is the blessing of the mules in the church square, followed by music and dancing. This is believed to be a symbol of prosperity for the village throughout the year.

This usually takes place on the fete de Saint-Éloi, patron saint of donkeys.

Look out for the procession of the donkeys decorated in Catalan colours and the children in colourful Catalan costumes..

Programme 29th June (FREE)

9H30 – Mass and departure of the procession – Ancien Hôpital Thermal des Armées
10H30 – Blessing of the ‘mulets et des petits pains’ – Parvis de l’église Saint-Quentin
11H30 – Sardanes – Rue piétonne
14H30 – Parc de la Mairie : Spectacle folklorique des petits danseurs d’Arles-sur-Tech, Prats-de-Mollo, Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans
16H30 – Sardanes – Place de la République

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