Elche footballer Josan Ferrández to open 2026 August festivals

Elche CF winger Josan Ferrández, who has renewed his contract for a tenth season, will deliver the opening speech (pregón) from the balcony of the city hall on Friday 7 August 2026, marking the start of the city’s August festivals. Ferrández, a nine‑season veteran who helped the club rise from Segunda B to La Liga, said the festivals, especially the Nit de l’Albà fireworks, are a highlight for him.

Fourteen hours before his appearance, the historic Hort del Gat garden will reopen to the public after a €700,000 renovation. The upgrades include new natural‑stone paving, solar lighting, restored sculptures, improved security fencing, and enhanced visibility of the traditional Acequia Mayor irrigation system. Mayor Pablo Ruz announced that the garden will serve as a venue for future cultural events and will be linked to the upcoming Centre of Interpretation of the Palmeral.