It has become one of the key events of the year, and 2026 is no exception: “Utiel, 250 Years by Candlelight” will once again light up the city streets with thousands of candles on the night of June 13–14. It will be the most anticipated moment of an extensive program of activities running from June 12 to 14.
Throughout the weekend, the streets of Utiel and venues such as the Casa de Cultura, the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, and the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción will be the setting for three days of music, heritage, and gastronomy. This year’s event will also feature the wines of the Utiel-Requena D.O. and wine tastings.
Program for “Utiel, 250 Years by Candlelight” 2026
This tenth anniversary of “Utiel, 250 Years by Candlelight” begins this Friday, June 12, with the opening of the artisan market and exhibitions of paintings, ceramics, and antiques.
The highlight of the weekend will take place on June 13 with the lighting ceremony. In the morning, all the candles will be placed in the Old Town so that, that same night and following the historical reenactment by the Enrique Rambal Theater Group, Utiel-born painter Felipe García Haba will light the first candle at 9:45 p.m. From that point on, all artificial lighting will be turned off until 2:30 a.m., leaving the town entirely illuminated by small points of light for a few hours.
During this unique event, visitors will be able to take special tours of the school’s cloister and chapel, as well as enjoy a performance by the U.M.U. Symphony Orchestra at the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción at 11:00 p.m. This concept of music by candlelight is also well known in the capital thanks to the candlelit concerts held in Valencia throughout the year.
June 14 will be the final day of this year’s festival, featuring the 20th Classic and Historic Vehicle Rally, as well as the market and other activities. The complete program, including dates, visiting hours, activities, and all exhibitions, can be viewed here.
