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Roda’s much-loved International Day of its Patron Saint Festivities got off to a sizzling start this Thursday August 28 with the serving up of a traditional English breakfast, an event that has now been running for 13 years.

 

More than 400 people gathered under Roda’s pine trees to enjoy a hearty plate of bacon, sausages, fried eggs, baked beans and mushrooms, all cooked and served by members of the San Javier district’s large foreign community, estimated to number over 2,000.

 

What started as a simple idea to make newcomers feel at home has grown into one of the highlights of Roda’s summer. Back when the tradition began, festival committee president Lourdes Sánchez – daughter of the then mayor, Eulogio Sánchez – suggested including an English breakfast in the celebrations as a way of welcoming the growing number of British residents.

 

Today, that small gesture has blossomed into International Day, bringing together not just English but also Irish, Scottish and other European residents who have become part of the fabric of local life.

 

This year’s pregón, the speech that kicks off the festivities, was given by English-born Phoebe Liddiard, who has lived in Roda for 11 years and proudly describes herself as a “Murcian by adoption”.

 

As an active member of the festival committee, Phoebe’s involvement shows just how integrated the international community has become.

 

San Javier’s mayor, José Miguel Luengo, joined the celebrations along with Councillor for Festivities, Isabel Madrid. Both highlighted how the Roda fiestas have become a shining example of inclusivity, with locals and newcomers sharing traditions and creating lasting friendships.

 

Not only that, but on Thursday evening there was a barbecue dinner with hamburgers and live music, and this entire weekend is packed full of fun activities to get involved in, such as open-air dancing in the pine forest, a traditional night of migas on Saturday August 30 and a sardine barbecue to close the festivities.

 

 

Images: Ayuntamiento de San Javier