If you visit Gandia, Spain, during the summer or at the beginning of October, there’s a good chance you’ll come across one of the city’s most unusual and much-loved characters. Standing several metres tall, dressed in a bright military-style uniform, complete with an impressive moustache and carrying a ceremonial staff, Tío de la Porra is instantly recognisable to both locals and visitors.

But who exactly is Tío de la Porra, and why does he hold such an important place in Gandia’s traditions?

A Symbol of Gandia’s Biggest Festival

Tío de la Porra is the official symbol of the Fira i Festes de Gandia, the city’s annual fair and festival, held every autumn around the feast day of Saint Francis Borgia.

For well over a century, the arrival of Tío de la Porra has marked the official beginning of Gandia’s biggest celebration. Traditionally, he marches through the streets accompanied by a lively marching band, announcing that the festivities have begun.

The unmistakable sound of drums and brass instruments has become part of Gandia’s identity, with generations of local families growing up knowing that when Tío de la Porra appears, it’s time to celebrate.

The Origins of Tío de la Porra

The tradition dates back to the late 19th century.

According to local history, a town crier dressed in a military-style uniform would walk through Gandia accompanied by musicians, informing residents that the annual fair had arrived. Over the years, this practical announcement evolved into a much-loved tradition.

The character gradually became known as Tío de la Porra (“Uncle Baton”), a reference to the staff or baton he carries while leading the celebrations.

Today, the original town crier has become a giant figure (known locally as a gegant) and one of Gandia’s most recognisable cultural symbols.

Bringing Tradition to the Beach

While Tío de la Porra is traditionally associated with the autumn Fira i Festes in the city centre, recent years have seen him make a special appearance during the summer at Playa de Gandia.

The event forms part of Tradicions a la Mar (“Traditions by the Sea”), a programme organised by Gandia City Council that brings some of the city’s most treasured customs to the beachfront during the busy holiday season.

The aim is simple: allow both residents and the thousands of visitors staying at Playa de Gandia to experience local Valencian traditions without needing to wait until October.

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The Summer Parade

Unlike the larger autumn celebrations, the beach parade is a more relaxed and family-friendly event.

Beginning along the promenade, Tío de la Porra is accompanied by his energetic marching band, filling the seafront with lively drum rhythms and festive music.

As they make their way along the paseo, tourists and locals alike stop to watch, take photographs and join in the celebrations. Many visitors have never encountered the character before, making it one of the highlights of their holiday in Gandia.

Although shorter than the main festival parade, the atmosphere is every bit as cheerful, bringing together music, tradition and community in one colourful procession.

More Than Just Entertainment

Events like Tradicions a la Mar play an important role in preserving Gandia’s cultural identity.

With Playa de Gandia attracting visitors from across Spain and Europe every summer, the parade offers an opportunity to introduce local history and customs to a wider audience. Rather than simply providing entertainment, it helps keep traditions alive while encouraging visitors to discover more about Gandia beyond its beautiful beaches.

It is a reminder that Gandia is not only a popular seaside resort but also a city with centuries of history, rich traditions and a strong sense of community.

A Must-See Experience

If you’re visiting Gandia during the summer, catching the Tío de la Porra parade is a wonderful way to experience authentic local culture.

The combination of the towering festival figure, lively marching band, enthusiastic crowds and the beautiful backdrop of Playa de Gandia creates a unique event that perfectly blends history with modern tourism.

Whether you encounter Tío de la Porra during the famous Fira i Festes de Gandia in October or during the Tradicions a la Mar summer programme, you’ll be witnessing one of the city’s oldest and most cherished traditions.

For visitors looking to experience something uniquely Valencian, Tío de la Porra offers a memorable glimpse into the heart of Gandia—a tradition that has welcomed the arrival of celebration for more than a century and continues to delight new generations every year.