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Street traders across Cartagena are gearing up for a busy Thursday March 19, as the Ayuntamiento launches a new measure allowing markets to open on public holidays starting with the feast of Saint Joseph. The initiative, promoted by the Department of Commerce, Hospitality and Consumer Affairs, is designed to boost both commercial and social life in the city’s neighbourhoods.

 

Councillor María Belén Romero Carretero, who signed the resolution, said the move marks an important step towards recognising the “fundamental role” that street markets play in the local economy and community. “We want cleaner, more sustainable and safer street markets, and we are working with the sector to achieve this,” she said. “Street vending is a dignified way to earn a living and, moreover, an attraction for those who visit our neighbourhoods.”

 

The decision follows a request submitted on February 23 by street vendor associations and local and regional organisations seeking permission to trade on public holidays throughout the year. After reviewing the proposal, the Ayuntamiento approved ten festive dates for 2026, including Good Friday on March 27, Holy Thursday and Good Friday on April 2 and 3, Labour Day on May 1, Region Day on June 9, Cartagineses on September 25, Hispanic Day on October 12, and Constitution and Immaculate Conception Days on December 7 and 8.

 

Markets will run as usual in their regular locations: Los Dolores, La Aljorra, La Palma, Urbanización Mediterráneo, El Algar, Llano del Beal, Pozo Estrecho, El Albujón, Los Belones and Barrio Peral. The council also clarified that Sunday June 7, initially included in the proposal, is not a public holiday, so market activity will continue on that date without special authorisation.

 

Romero noted that the government team is committed to modernising and strengthening the sector and is already working with traders to regulate issues such as the sale of second-hand clothing. The measure forms part of the Ayuntamiento’s existing powers to regulate non-sedentary commercial activity, reinforcing collaboration with the street vending sector to ensure markets remain attractive, safe and sustainable.

 

 

Image: Ayuntamiento de Cartagena