The historic palm groves of Elche are a centrepiece of the 25th-anniversary celebrations.
Credit: Jose Aldeguer / Shutterstock
Elche is pulling out all the stops to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its iconic Palmeral being recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
From November 25-29, a rich programme of cultural, gastronomic, and educational events is set to honour this unique landscape – a symbol of the city’s history, identity and environmental legacy.
The Schedule
The schedule is set over four days.
On November 25 at 7pm, there will be a presentation of a photo book by the ‘Asociación Fotográfica de Elche’ (Photographic Association of Elche), at the ‘Hort del Xocolater’.
On November 26 at 8pm, there will be a wine tasting organised by the Alicante Wine Route, featuring local products from the ‘Campo d’Elx’ (such as different cheeses), at the ‘Hort de Pontos’.
On November 27 at 5:30pm, there will be a conference called ‘El Palmeral Activo: Proposals for a productive, innovative and profitable future’, held at the Congress Centre, led by ‘Elche Piensa’.
And finally, on November 29 from 10am-2pm is the Festa del Palmerar, a family-friendly celebration at the ‘Hort de Pontos’, organised by Volem Palmerar and ADR.
Honouring Tradition and Innovation
The Palmeral of Elche is not just a scenic grove of date palms – it’s a living cultural and agricultural system, rooted in the ingenious irrigation techniques of the past.
The anniversary celebrations are an opportunity both to reflect on this heritage and to look forward: discussions at the Congress Centre will explore how the Palmeral can continue to be productive and sustainable for Elche’s future.
In addition, the city is reinforcing its commitment through a new audiovisual campaign: a commemorative video and posters unveiled by the local government depict both the traditional palm-grove life and its modern relevance.
A Green Legacy for Generations
The Festa del Palmerar is the emotional core of the celebrations: workshops, guided tours, contests (including the traditional trepa – climbing of the palm), exhibitions and creative activities will fill the morning with artisan energy, music and community spirit.
These events bring together institutions, neighbourhood associations, academic bodies and citizens under the shared cause of valuing and protecting this extraordinary heritage.
The University of Miguel Hernández is also contributing with a series of reflection sessions about the role of the Palmeral, featuring experts, researchers and local stakeholders.
Why It Matters
The Palmeral is more than a green oasis – it’s part of Elche’s identity, history and sustainability. Recent studies even highlight its role in cooling the city and helping to tackle urban heat. This 25-year anniversary is not only a cultural celebration but also a reaffirmation of its environmental value for present and future generations.
Between November 25 and 29, the city of Elche invites residents and visitors to join in celebrating a quarter-century of world recognition for its palm-filled heritage.
Through thoughtful events – from wine tastings and talks to community festivals – the message is clear: the Palmeral remains a living, breathing treasure to cherish, protect and reimagine for tomorrow.