During the month of September, the eagerly awaited Festival week takes place, one of the most eagerly awaited celebrations by the young people of Ubrique. For seven days the municipality decorates its streets, which are filled with sevillanas, food and a festive atmosphere that lasts both day and night. The parade of big-heads kicks off a week of festivities, the main meeting point of which is the fairgrounds in the Palms Square
In the afternoon of Corpus Christi, the annual Gastoreña Bagpipe Contest is held, a tradition that began in 1974 and continues to this day. A musical competition that takes us back in time through the use of this native instrument.
Another of the religious festivals where the Patron Saint of Villaluenga is the main character is the Procession of the Stones, which takes place in the early hours of 30 to 31 August each year. The devotees take to the streets to accompany the Virgen del Rosario through the municipality, with the aim of asking for her protection. This petition has its origins in 1926, when a lightning strike caused a large rocky mass to detach from the Sierra of the Caíllo, heading towards the village. Despite the material damage caused by the precipitation of rocks over the municipality, no injuries were reported.
At the end of November, the Historical Recreation is held every year. An event of great tourist and cultural interest, in which a group of more than 200 members of the Villa de El Bosque Historical and Cultural Association recreate the uprising in arms of this town against the French invader. This commemorates the bicentenary of the granting of the title of Villa to El Bosque by King Ferdinand VII.
One of the most eagerly awaited summer events for children is the Puppet Festival, a programme of theatrical performances with puppets.
The Living Nativity Scene is one of the most fun and eagerly awaited activities of the Christmas season. The whole town throws itself into the recreation of biblical passages in locations such as the lower areas of Fatetar Mount or the Cave of the Castle. This attractive tourist offer is accompanied by a tasting of Christmas products.
On the first Saturday in June, Benaocaz starts its Pilgrimage in Honor of Saint Esteban, patron saint of the municipality. The day begins with religious ceremonies and the procession of the image of the saint through the village, accompanied by carts and musical bands, until it reaches the Agua Nueva area. There, concerts, competitions and the tasting of the “cuchipanda”, a typical recipe of Benaocaz gastronomy, are held. To bid farewell to the Patron Saint, on his return, in the Town Hall Square, dances are held as the final touch to a day full of excitement and fervor.
The arrival of February brings with it the celebration of the Puerto Serrano Carnival. It reached its peak at the beginning of the 90s, although there is evidence of it being held earlier. During the first weekend, the children’s parade will open the programme on Friday morning. On the same day, the “Fallita” takes place in the Cultural Center, where local groups and those from nearby municipalities entertain the afternoon. On Saturday night you can enjoy different musical performances and first prize winning groups from the Falla Theater competition. All of this is preceded by the opening speech, given by a famous celebrity or resident of the town. The famous tasting on Sunday, known as the “Chaciná Popular”, is the culmination of the first week of Carnival.
The calendar of December is full of various activities that liven up the Christmas festivities. The Living Nativity Scene and the Christmas Market set the scene during the holidays with performances in which the whole town participates and activities aimed at all audiences.
During the last week of August, from the 27th to the 31st, the Royal Festival and Festivities of Saint Agustín take place. Originally it had a commercial and livestock character, however, over the years it has acquired a more recreational character. Recently the location has been moved to the fairgrounds, where these fiestas are now held, one of the most eagerly awaited by Olvera’s inhabitants and visitors alike.
One of the most important and popular events in the festive calendar of the region is the Moors and Christians which is also celebrated in Setenil de las Bodegas. Between 21 and 23 October, the historic Christian reconquest of the territory occupied by the Nasrid town at that time is recreated. Parades, competitions, karaoke and performances enliven these three days that reflect the deep cultural imprint left by both cultures.
During the summer, a series of activities are held to liven up this time of the year. The Cultural Summer is made up of different children’s parties, gymkhanas, book fairs and open-air cinemas. On weekends in July and August, Themed Nights in Caños Santos are held, with routes to the Convent and guided tours of the facilities. The Saint Roque’s Fair in honor of the patron saint of Alcalá is also held during these months.
The month of May brings with it the traditional Algar’s Night Out, where visitors and inhabitants of the municipality enjoy festivities and typical local dishes in the Real Street.
The arrival of April also brings with it one of the most traditional celebrations of Andalusian folklore, the Pilgrimage. In this case it is Saint Isidro, patron saint of Ubrique, who causes the fervor of the parishioners on his journey from the town center to the Periurban Park of the Transfer. On arrival, the celebration begins with music and good food.
A few years ago, an annual cultural and gastronomic activity began to be held. The Historical Recreation, which is about the creation of the town, is an event where Mexican and Algar fusion food is the focus.
The arrival of Christmas in the municipality is one of the most important festivities in the Arcos calendar. Numerous activities such as the ‘zambombás’, ‘buñueladas’ or the cavalcade fill the streets of the town, decorated for the occasion. The town’s Living Nativity Scene, declared of Touristic Interest in Andalusia, is well known throughout the region. More than 20 scenes from the time of the birth of Jesus make up this mythical reconstruction in which all the inhabitants take part.
The celebration of Holy Week in Setenil is so important that it has been declared of National Tourist Interest in Andalusia. The complex urban layout of the town makes the stations of penitence a spectacle worthy of being seen live. The healthy rivalry between the brotherhoods of the Whites and the Blacks, the musical accompaniment of the images by the bands and the multitudinous acts carried out throughout the week, make this festivity one of the most acclaimed and desired by visitors and natives of the municipality.
On 3 February, Saint Blas Day, the municipality celebrates the Festivities in Honor of the Co-Patron, one of the most deeply-rooted celebrations in the locality. The Beatus, to whom miraculous properties are attributed, attracts visitors from other towns every year. The image of the saint is paraded through the village accompanied by cheerful charanga bands, making the icon swing as if it was dancing.
One of the festivities that pave the way to the summer season is the Roman Descent. Of a historical nature, this event recreates the ancient route of the Romans in the Hispanic era. Disguised as legionaries and civilians of the time, the participants follow the route between Ubrique and Benaocaz. The path is accompanied by a market, the recreation of an Ocvritan forum, gladiator fights and other historical activities.
To round off the summer season, the Patron Saint Festivities in Honor of the Virgen de los Remedios take place. The festivities are held between 30 August and 7 September, and begin with the move from the Convent of Capuchinos to the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora de la O.
On Three kings Day a special competition takes place in the town, the Turkey Marathon. A 16-kilometer race, mostly through the streets of the municipality, which has established itself as one of the most important sporting events in the region.
With the arrival of February, El Gastor celebrates its own Carnival, which begins with the election of the poster announcing the arrival of these festivities. Children are the main subjects of Friday afternoon with their parade, while in the evening the last rehearsal of the carnival groups takes place. On Saturday night, humor and music fill the walls of the multipurpose hall, with performances by the different groups taking part. Finally, it will be the parade and the great cavalcade that will set the atmosphere for Sunday, which will bring the festivities to a close.
In May, the Pilgrimage of Alcalá is held, where the patron saint of the town is accompanied to the Convent of Caños Santos in an emotional move.
Villaluenga celebrates its annual Holy Week with great fervor, typical of this religious festivity. There are various events that take place during these days, such as the blessing of olive branches, the procession of the Christian imagery or different masses and services in the religious temples of the town.
In the middle of the summer season, in mid-June, Villaluenga celebrates the Pilgrimage in Honor of the Divina Pastora. At the site known as “El Baño”, activities are programmed for all ages, such as ribbon races, sack races and Sevillana dancing competitions. The inhabitants of the municipality venerate the patron saint between festivities and food, once the image leaves the Hermitage of Saint Gregorio. This is a very popular event that has been held since 1962.
At the end of July one of the most special nights of the year takes place, the Candlelight Night. The villagers, together with the Town Hall, embellish the whole town, windows and façades with candles. A unique way of contemplating the beauty of this town illuminated exclusively by candles.
The Village of Algar Trail is a very popular sporting event in the municipality. Participants traverse a total of 20 km over different cross-country routes.
In mid-September, the Santísimo Cristo del Romeral is worshiped during the Pilgrimage of Arcos de la Frontera. Decorated carts, accompanied by pilgrims on foot or horseback, make their way to the hermitage to visit the Saint. Afterwards, a field day takes place in the pine grove of La Plata.
During the weekend closest to the 15th of May, Setenil celebrates its pilgrimage in honor of Saint Isidro. Offerings, masses and hand-kissing begin a weekend of fervor and a lot of emotions. The most eagerly awaited moment comes when the image is accompanied by all the faithful from the village to the area where the pilgrimage is held. In this natural setting, a convivial gathering takes place, with an eminent rock character, where there is no lack of food or music.
On 7 September, at dawn, the Rosary of the Dawn takes place, which is also presided over by the Simpecado. That same night, fireworks display lit up the night in Ubrique. The following day, the Day of the Virgin is celebrated with a Solemn Function in the morning and a procession of the image in the afternoon. On the Sunday following the procession, the vows to the Patron Saint are renewed, a symbolic act of faith that dates back to 1855.
At the end of August, the town is decked out for the Major Festivities, which serve as the culmination of the summer season. For four days the town celebrates the patron saint of the village, Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, which involves the move of her image from the hermitage to the parish church. Open-air dance, tastings and bullfighting festivities complement the religious spirit of this festivity.
The cultural calendar of Ubrique offers visitors and locals an interesting proposal, the “Pedro Lobato Hoyos” Outdoor Speed Painting Competition. The event brings together painters from all over Andalusia and Spain to try to capture the beauty of the streets and corners of Ubrique.
The traditional Moors and Christians Festivity is one of the most eagerly awaited historical events in the Benamahoma community. On the first weekend in August, the town travels back to the 15th century, at the height of the conflict between Muslims and Christians, through its re-enactments. An intense and emotional three-day tribute to the history of the town, which has been declared of Tourist Interest in Andalusia.
It is celebrated in the old town, located in the streets surrounding the Church of Saint Maria de Gracia, where altars of great beauty are erected by brotherhoods and parish associations.
For some time now, every 28 February, events have been held in the municipality to celebrate the Day of Andalusia. The local musical bands are in charge of opening the day by playing the anthem in the Municipal Library. The rest of the activities take place mostly in the Municipal Sports Center, where competitions, games and tastings are held. It is worth mentioning that during this day, the “Put Andalusia on your balcony” initiative is promoted, where the collaboration of all the neighbors is sought to decorate the balconies with motifs of this festivity.
In the month of December, the traditional Pig Slaughter Fair is held, where the animal is butchered so that visitors can get to know this traditional work first hand. During these gastronomic days there is a tasting of products and stands where you can buy typical Algar products.
In January, the Cultu-Rural Conferences take place, where various gastronomic workshops are held. Thus, you can learn how to season olives, can vegetable garden products and make jam, among other activities.
In response to the high demand from folk music fans, Fatetar Folk was created in 2004. The festival, which is in charge of the Municipal Delegation of Culture, is committed to amateur groups at a national level for the promotion of this type of music. It is an event that tries to keep the music of typical Andalusian folklore alive.
At the beginning of May Arcos celebrates its Crosses, when the townsfolk decorate the streets with flowers, filling the town with vivid colors.
The municipality lives with great intensity and enthusiasm the Christmas festivities, where the illumination and the decorative motifs adorn the facades and streets of the municipality. Every year the inhabitants of Villamartín get involved in the representation of their Living Nativity Scene, which takes the town back to the time of the birth of Jesus. The nativity scene set up in the premises of Cristina Gómez Vizcaíno’s chemist’s shop is also very popular and, together with the Christmas markets and the ice rink, attracts a large number of visitors every year.
On 28 December, the Genuine Andalusian Fundraising Football Cup takes place between teams from the same league. For children, workshops and games will be organized under the name of Divertilandia. Finally, the countdown to the end of the year begins with the Pre-uvas Popular Race.
On the second weekend in August, the municipality celebrates its Festivities of Saint Roque, in honor of the co-patron saint of the town. The festivities begin with the release of a bull on a rope, which runs through the streets of Villaluenga accompanied by those participants who are designated to ensure that the animal suffers as little damage as possible. The day continues in the Municipal Stand, where music and dancing are the stars of the show. The following day, Saint Roque goes out in procession to walk with his faithful through the corners of the municipality.
On the eve of Three Kings’ Day, the traditional Cavalcade of the Three Wise Men takes to the streets of Espera, accompanied by their pages, who throw sweets and make children nervous about the presents that their Majesties the Three Kings of Orient will hand out at night.
One of the most popular and deeply-rooted festivities in the town is the ‘Crujía de gamones’. Every 3rd of May, Ubrique is filled with candles and decorations that cover the streets and the center of the town for this traditional celebration. The ritual consists of exploding the stems of the asphodel -a wild plant with white flowers- which are placed in a bonfire. When the base of the plant heats up, it bursts and produces an intense noise that provokes the jubilation and celebration of those present.
At the beginning of October, the people of El Gastor take to the streets to celebrate the Patron Saint’s Day. The day of worship of the Virgen del Rosario is celebrated on 7 October, although the festivity is always moved to the nearest weekend. Along with the offering of flowers, prayers are said in honor of the Patron Saint, who is also carried in procession along with all the faithful through the streets of the town. The celebration is rounded off with live performances, horse shows and the Bull of Fire.
Holy Week in Olvera has become so important that it has been declared of National Tourist Interest in Andalusia. The fervor and devotion of the people of Olvera during this week is felt in the streets, accompanying the local brotherhoods in the procession of the local imagery.
The Christmas season is a time of great excitement for children and adults in Olvera. The calendar of activities is full for the end of the year festivities. The Living Nativity Scene is held on a Saturday in December and the town of Olvera throws itself into recreating biblical scenes. Every year the town receives the visit of the Royal Postmen, who collect the letters from the children addressed to Their Majesties the Three Wise Men. The shops in the old town take their stalls out onto the streets, in an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
On the 8th of September, Villamartín begins its Pilgrimage in Honor of Nuestra Señora de las Montañas, with the liturgy celebrated in the early hours of the morning. Once the mass is over, the people of Villamartín accompany their patron saint from the Parish Church of Saint María de las Virtudes to the hermitage. According to tradition, the image of the Virgin was found by a woodcutter in the 16th century and, in the middle of the century, a request was made to build a chapel in her honor. The temple was erected in honor of the Virgen de las Montañas and Saint Ginés, patron saint of winegrowers.
The end of the summer season, with the arrival of September, marks the beginning of the Patron Saint Festivities in Honor of the Saint Cristo de la Antigua, a festivity declared of National Tourist Interest in Andalusia. On the first Sunday of the month the celebration begins with the move of the image from the Hermitage of Santiago to the Parish Church of Santa María de Gracia, where the corresponding mass is celebrated in honor of the patron saint. During the evenings, the traditional soirées provide entertainment and amusement for the locals and visitors. On these dates the “Rosario de la Aurora” also takes place, in which the faithful walk through the streets of the town singing the rosary for a week. The patron saint festivities end with the return of the image to the hermitage.
Stale bread, onion, garlic, olive oil, water, salt and bay leaf are the basic ingredients of one of the most rooted and stimulating dishes of the rich and varied gastronomy of Benamahoma.
Dish of peasant origin, which is enjoyed in this contest held every year during the month of March in the town, organized by the Moors and Christians Association and the City Council of Grazalema.
Holy Week in Alcalá has been declared a festivity of National Tourist Interest in Andalusia. Seven days of devotion and feelings on edge, where the different brotherhoods go through every corner of the municipality accompanied by their people. April also sees the celebration of the Asparagus Fair, which aims to get to know the town’s star product. At the end of the month the World Book Day’s Commemorative Week also takes place, with activities to promote reading.
As is typical in the calendar of festivities in the region, Carnival is celebrated with a display of costumes and colors. ‘Pasacalles’, ‘charangas’, children’s competitions and live performances complete the programme of these festivities that herald the coming of Easter.
The Passion of Christ takes place in March, undoubtedly one of the most fervent moments of the year. The HOSANNA Association stages different passages from the life, passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ in the streets of the town. In addition, on Women’s Day, workshops and activities are organized to pay tribute to women’s effort.
On 13 June the Pilgrimage of Saint Antonio takes place, in honor of the patron saint of the town. A festivity that begins with the departure of the patron saint from the namesake church to be carried in procession accompanied by the whole town. The pilgrimage passes through all the streets of the town and culminates in a get-together with music and food in which the whole town gets involved until the early hours of the morning.
Every year at the end of February, El Bosque is transformed into a festival in which the town turns out in force and shows off its wit and grace. During the Carnival you can enjoy the different local ‘chirigotas’ and ‘comparsas’, the costume contests and the Piñata Sunday, when decorated jars with sweet surprises and confetti inside are smashed in the streets of the village.
Coinciding with the festivities of the Patron Saint, the Flamenco Festival is also held in honor of the master guitarist Diego Amaya. Great figures of the guitar take part in this evening where flamenco is the absolute protagonist.
During the month of August, the people of Bornos get together to celebrate the De la Paz District Open-Air Dance. The Neighborhood Association organizes annually a pleasant evening where live flamenco music is the subject.
The Pilgrimage of Saint Magdalena, patron saint of Puerto Serrano, takes place on 22nd July. More than 150 years of tradition consolidate this event as one of the most popular in the local calendar. For three days, the inhabitants of Puerto Serrano celebrate in honor of the saint, who is taken to the Del Almendral hermitage.
The festivities in honor of Saint Sebastián, patron saint of Setenil, take place on the Sunday closest to 21 January. The day takes place between liturgical acts, the procession of the image through the streets of the town and an open-air dance in his honor, which enlivens the rest of the day.
The Patron Saint Festivities in Honor of Saint María of Guadalupe is the most important festivity in the Algar’s calendar. During these days different masses are celebrated in honor of the patron saint of the town. In addition, there is the traditional salt carpet and the procession of the image of Guadalupe on 8 September. Different recreational activities will entertain children during these days and, in the evenings, live performances will enliven the nights at the fairgrounds.
In the month of December, Ubrique prepares to bid farewell to the year with a structural framework of lights and decorations in every corner of the town. The Christmas programme includes interesting activities such as the Living Nativity Scene, which, as well as commemorating the birth of Jesus, recreates trades and the atmosphere of the time. The tasting of an enormous Three King’s Cake, the visit of the Royal Postman or the parade of the Three Kings Parade make both young and old live this festivity with the same enthusiasm.
The Indoor Football Marathon is a great attraction for fans of this sport, as it brings together teams from all over Andalusia. It takes place on a weekend in June or July.
Guitar, flamenco and dance become the unique subject of the annual Flamenco Night, an event organized by the Cultural Association Peña Flamenca “Aires de Espera” that attracts every year more and more lovers of traditional Andalusian music.
Holy Week is one of the most devotional moments in the Torre de Alháquime calendar. The village lives one of its most emotional weeks, walking the streets of the town with the imagery of the brotherhoods. The most eagerly awaited day by the inhabitants of Alháquime is Sunday, when the “Carrerita de San Juan” takes place, in which the image of the saint is carried by women to the image of the Virgin to announce the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Afterwards, the image of the Resurrected Christ meets the other two processions and concludes with a “dance” of the three carvings, accompanied by the shouts and applause of the people of Alháquime.
The month of August is marked by the celebration of the Fair and Festivities, where activities take place both during the day and at nightfall. A wide range of activities make up the events of these days, including karaoke, competitions, performances, attractions and fireworks.
Shortly after the Fair will come the Pilgrimage of San Bernardino, a celebration marked by the pilgrimage of carts and the faithful who accompany the Cruz de May to the fairground, where a conviviality marked by music and food will take place.
The feeling of brotherhood also has its place in the calendar of Ubrique with the celebration of the Holy Week. Orange blossom and faith fill the streets and corners of the municipality along with religious imagery in a fervent atmosphere throughout the week.
The celebration of Corpus Christi in Olvera dates back to the 13th century, although in recent years it has gained special prominence. The streets and corners of the town are decorated for this festivity, and altars are set up for the imagery that traverses the town center of Olvera.
In April, Villaluenga hosts the Andalusian Artisan Cheese Fair, located in the “La Albarrada” area. The exhibition of products is combined with workshops and activities related to cheese making. The Andalusian Traditional Cheese Fair Sierra of Cadiz takes place in the Events Center and has become a national reference in this sector.
In mid-October, around the 12th, the Benaocaz Livestock Fair is held, which is a benchmark event in the Sierra of Cadiz. The aim of the event is to highlight the value of the mountain breeds and showcase the recipes and dishes made with local products. In addition to the livestock exhibition, workshops, tastings and competitions complete the program of activities for this very popular event in the region.
On the occasion of Saint Jose’s Day, an image of the town’s patron saint is carried in procession through the main streets of the town. The figure, which dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, is carried on the shoulders of the locals, who pay homage to the Christian father figure.
In mid-May, the Pilgrimage of Saint Isidro Labrador takes place. The festivities begin with the transfer of the saint and his devotees to a grove of trees near the borough of Bornos. Once there, the day is spent with festivities, food and music. The day ends with Holy Mass, which is celebrated in the parish church once the saint has returned.
The Benaocaz Fair and Festivities are undoubtedly one of the most significant festivities in this village and one of the most popular with its inhabitants. In mid-August, and for four days, the village organizes numerous activities, shows, concerts and other events designed for all audiences. The bulls release are particularly noteworthy, especially on the 15th, with the traditional “enmaromado” bull.
Undoubtedly, the most eagerly awaited day for carnival-goers is Piñata Sunday, which takes place on the second weekend of the celebrations. During this special day, a parade of cavalcades goes through the streets of the town together with musical groups and the locals themselves in costume, who compete to win the prize for the best costume.
Every 28 February, on the occasion of Andalusia Day, El Gastor joins in the celebrations throughout the community. The Gastoreña Musical Band is in charge of accompanying the institutional acts, which culminate in other activities such as the traditional stew competition. It is a day on which tribute is paid to all those who have contributed to the development and growth of the town.
Right in the summer season, the village is once again decked out for the Festivities in Honor of the Patron Saint Laureano. The patron saint, who was chosen by the people of Bornos because he was attributed with a miracle during the scourge of the plague, walks the streets of the village every year together with its inhabitants. Performances by musical groups and festivities throughout the day complete this day of rejoicing and devotion.
The festivities of Saint Juan kick off the summer with the celebration of the local pilgrimage on the Arroyomolinos riverbank, where the transfer of the saint ends and the festivities begin. During the period of the celebrations, various masses are held in honor of the saint, as well as a float and dance competition.
The first weekend in August is the Fair and Major Festivities, one of the most popular celebrations in the Sierra. Among the activities that make up the itinerary of these days is the election of the miss and mister among the young people of El Gastor who come of age. Various concerts and humorous performances enliven the nights of the fair, as well as the celebration of bingo in the Constitution Square. Sports competitions of different sports, the release of heifers through the town and the Bull of Fire complete the programme.
In June, the Patron Saint Festivities are held in honor of Saint Antonio de Padua, patron saint of the municipality. The image of the saint is carried in procession from the locality to the spring of Los Cañitos, and the fervor and warmth of the parishioners who accompany him all the way.
Declared to be of National Tourist Interest, the Corpus Christi celebration stands out for its attractiveness. Announcing the arrival of the summer season, El Gastor embellishes its streets with olive branches, eucalyptus and other plants. The façades and arches decorated with flowers and the altars built on the doors of the houses form a unique image of great beauty. The inhabitants, dressed in classic 18th century gleaners’ costumes, accompany the figure of the saint throughout the route.
The Tourist-Cultural Evening Ubrique Crea-Arte aims to show visitors and inhabitants of Ubrique an alternative vision of the municipality and its history, which is accompanied by cultural activities and workshops.
In November the celebration of cultural activities continues with the Cultural Autumn of Alcalá. On the November 1st, All Saints’ Day takes place, a deep-rooted tradition in which tribute is paid to the deceased. Finally, during the weekends in November, the Tapas’ Route is held. A gastronomic tour of the main bars and restaurants in the municipality, where you can savor the exquisite traditional dishes of the village.
One of the most widespread and famous traditions in Andalusia, the Holy Week, has an important weight in the town. The procession of Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno and María Santísima de los Dolores involves the congregation of believers who walk through the streets of the village in an atmosphere impregnated with sentiment and religiosity.
The Fair of Villamartín takes place from 21 September for two days, a festivity that has been on record in documents since 1589, when it had a more commercial and livestock character. The town’s location made it a privileged place to hold these gatherings, which brought together people from all over the region and the highlands.
As in most Andalusian municipalities, Holy Week is one of the most eagerly awaited festivities of the year. This celebration takes on an even more special meaning in Bornos, being the pioneer municipality in Spain in carrying out the Stations of the Cross, which makes it the precursor of the carrying out of the Stations of Penitence and the move of images.
During the month of March the ascent to Algar is held. A sporting event that also counts towards the Andalusian Mountain Championship.
During the month of July, the Festivities of El Carmen take place, one of the most popular celebrations among the people of Grazalema. A deep-rooted tradition that culminates in the traditional Monday of the Rope Bull, where a bull tied with ropes is released and runs through the streets of the municipality accompanied by spontaneous runners who race alongside the animal. The festivity is carried out with respect for the integrity of the animal, making it one of the most traditional local events.
The Pilgrimage of Saint Juan is one of the most eagerly awaited celebrations, marking the start of the summer. Held between 22 and 24 June, the saint is carried on a float accompanied by songs and cheers to the Trejo Mill. The rest of the day is spent in festivities, with open-air dances, sports competitions, musical performances and dances. At night the traditional candles are lit and the celebrations continue.
Its origins date back to 1839 as a livestock fair, until today it has become one of the most eagerly awaited festivities by the “policheros”. It is held between the second and third week of August and lasts five days, from Wednesday to Sunday. The lighting of the fairgrounds, accompanied by the local music band “Gailín”, inaugurates this festivity. On the same night, the Flamenco Night takes place.
On the second day of the festival, the parade of Giants and Big-heads and the release of the Bull of Fire complete the morning activities. On the occasion of the Homage to the Polichera Woman, the “Gran Paella” is held in the Municipal Stand, which precedes the Popular Games every afternoon.
Villamartín celebrates its Carnival over two weekends in February, as is traditional in many towns in the region. Local groups of ‘comparsas’ and ‘chirigotas’ provide the music and carnival humor in the Official Musical Ensemble Competition.
Local fairs have been held throughout Andalusia for almost ten centuries. Although they were originally for commercial purposes, nowadays they have become more festive in character. The traditional Fair is held in mid-September, while that of the village of Bornos Reserve takes place at the end of August. The fairgrounds and lighting are the standard-bearers of these days where sevillanas and wine are the stars.
With the arrival of August, in the middle of the summer season, Zahara celebrates its Fair and Festivities, with activities for all ages such as competitions, dances and the release of heifers.
The Saint Miguel Fair or Arcos Major Fair takes place at the end of September, in honor of the town’s patron saint.
In the same context, Holy Saturday is also marked by the celebration of the Burning of Judas. This is a burning of dolls made by the residents of the hamlet to symbolically punish the apostle’s betrayal to Jesus Christ. This celebration lasts throughout the night with the company of musical performances.
During the summer months, the town’s neighborhoods celebrate their Verbenas, among which of the Emigrant, held in the namesake square, and of the Socorro, with its traditional greasy pole, stand out. Live musical performances liven up the summer evenings at these open-air dances.
The Virgen of Fátima Pilgrimage is one of the most eagerly awaited celebrations in the municipality’s calendar. Following the tradition, on the first Sunday in May the image of the Virgin spends the whole day in the house of a El Gastor family. The dwelling, decorated for the occasion, is a must-see place where neighbors make offerings and prayers. At the end of the day, the image returns to the church, accompanied by prayers and canticles from the women of the village. The festivity is enlivened by a marquee in the area known as La Teja, where locals and visitors eat and celebrate the day.
On the second weekend in August, the municipality celebrates its Festivities of Saint Roque, in honor of the co-patron saint of the town. The festivities begin with the release of a bull on a rope, which runs through the streets of Villaluenga accompanied by those participants who are designated to ensure that the animal suffers as little damage as possible. The day continues in the Municipal Stand, where music and dancing are the stars of the show. The following day, Saint Roque goes out in procession to walk with his faithful through the corners of the municipality.
On the occasion of the commemoration of the Christian conquest of Zahara in 1483, on 20 October the festivities of Saint Simón and Saint Judas, patron saints of the town, are held. The main event is the procession of the banner that was carried through the streets of the village as a sign of the conquest. Throughout the week, other activities are planned, such as painting, photography and poetry competitions. The proclamation of the fiestas and the popular meal in the square bring together locals and visitors every year.
The town of Grazalema bids farewell to the month of May and welcomes the summer with another of its religious festivities, in this case the Pilgrimage of Saint Isidro Labrador. A pilgrimage to El Soto, where parishioners and onlookers gather for a day of celebration and festivities around the figure of the patron saint of farmers. Offerings, prayers and drums fill the streets of the town.
Before celebrating Christmas, the town celebrates its own Homage to Our Customs, a celebration of local traditions and gastronomy. The day begins with the ancient custom of pig slaughtering for its subsequent preparation and tasting by visitors and locals alike. Cultural activities, street markets and concerts are added to the programme during this day.
In the middle of the summer season, in the month of July, the Tapas Route of Algar takes place. A tour of different bars and restaurants in the town where you can taste different tapas and typical local dishes.
The Fun Run takes place in November, where residents and sports enthusiasts from all over the province come together for this competition. The route goes all around the town and its surroundings, and is run in different categories to cover all ages.
The first Sunday in October is considered another of the most important days in the calendar of Bornos, as the Festivities in Honor of the Patron Saint: Nuestra Señora del Rosario take place. Since the foundation of the Association and Archconfraternity in Jerez in the mid-18th century, these festivities have been held in honor of the devotee. The day begins with the congregation of the whole town for the Solemn Function, followed by the procession of the image through the streets of the municipality. The Novena to the Virgen del Rosario, which takes place the day before, and the Rosary of the Dawn, celebrated every Sunday in October, complete the events.
The Patron Saint Festivities of Nuestra Señora del Carmen take place on 16th July, marked by the novena and the procession of the Virgin. In addition to the religious nature of this festivity, a popular open-air dance is held with live performances and orchestras.
The town lives its Holy Week with great devotion and fervor with the processions of different brotherhoods. During the seven days, religious imagery travels through the streets of Villamartín, along with its people, who experience moments of great emotion. Particularly noteworthy is the joyful celebration of Easter Sunday, with the Resurrected Christ and María Santísima de las Virtudes, who are in the Town Hall Square, accompanied by the musical band.
Between the end of February and the beginning of March, the traditional Carnivals are celebrated in the town. The parades, costume contests and the musical groups fill the streets of the municipality during these days. Finally, it is the famous “Chorizada” that puts the finishing touch to the festivities, where locals and visitors can taste chorizo and wine, two of the municipality’s typical products.
The popular race of the 101 km of the Ronda Legion, the best known and most demanding of the ultra-trail category held in Andalusia, has its most attractive stage in Setenil. The municipality, which forms the 56th kilometer of the route and the supply point of the itinerary, experiences an exciting day when it becomes the stage for this sporting event, which already has more than 20,000 registrations per year. Participants from all over Spain and well-known locals are cheered on as they pass by the locals at such emblematic points of the town as the Cueva del Sol and the Cabrerizas.
The Pilgrimage in Honor of the Patron Saint Nicolás takes place on the first weekend in June. The schedule of festivities revolves around the patron saint of Algar, who is taken in procession in a cart to Romera Ranch. In this place a mass will be celebrated, followed by different activities that will enliven the festivities.
Holy Week in El Gastor has established itself as one of the most exciting dates for the town’s devotees. The local musical bands accompany the different processions that pass through the streets of the town during the seven days. The final touch to this week of fervor comes on Easter Sunday with the departure of the image of Christ, carried only by women, and the Patron Saint.
The second Monday after Easter Sunday is the Pilgrimage of Quasimodo Monday, a celebration that brings the whole town together at the Sanctuary of the Virgen de los Remedios to celebrate throughout the day. The Olvera Pilgrimage, as well as being declared of National Tourist Interest in Andalusia, is the oldest in the province of Cadiz, dating back more than 300 years. The origin of this festivity dates back to 1715, when it began to be celebrated as a way of giving thanks for the rains that put an end to a long drought. It is a tradition to taste typical local sweets such as the Quasimodo Monday flapjacks or the “hornazo”.
Algar celebrates its traditional Carnival in February, a festival where the streets of the town will be filled with dressed-up residents. The groups will liven up the festivities with their ‘chirigotas’ and a costume contest that will choose the most original Algar resident.
On 15th August, the Virgen Nuestra. Sra. de los Remedios Festivity is celebrated in Olvera, in honor of the patron saint of the town. During the day, different masses are held for this Virgin, one of the few crowned as canonical in the whole province of Cadiz. On this day, the people of Olvera accompany the image of the Virgin from the municipality to the sanctuary, a pilgrimage that knows no weather conditions.
One of the most eagerly awaited traditions during the summer period is the Festival of Saint Roque, in honor of the patron saint of Torre Alháquime. Every year, in mid-August, the town is decorated for the festivities, which last several days and include activities such as the procession of the patron saint, dances, musical performances, open-air dances and sports competitions.
In honor of the Patron Saint of Arcos, every 5th of August the Virgen de las Nieves Evening Out is celebrated. In addition to the procession of the Virgin, accompanied by her devotees, there is a celebration where flamenco is the focus.
One of the proposals that the municipality has created to promote sport and healthy life is the Bicycle Day. Organized by the Ciudad del Lago Sports Club, in collaboration with three public educational institutions, it proposes a route from the town center to a camping area that culminates in a gathering with activities, raffles and food. The borough of Bornos normally celebrates this activity the day before it is held in Bornos.
The Patron Saint Festivities in Honor of the Virgen del Rosario take place on the first weekend of October, when the image of the Virgin walks through the streets of the town surrounded by her people.
The arrival of March brings with it the celebration of the Carnival of Espera, where the parade of floats and the ‘comparsas’ become the real subjects. The famous “Chorizá” puts the finishing touches to this week.
The Cross of May Festival is one of the most eagerly awaited celebrations in the calendar of the town. The switching of the funfair’s lights marks the beginning of the festivities where the fairground becomes the stage for tasting typical products and endless hours of fun to the rhythm of sevillanas. The “Senior Citizens’ Lunch” is one of the most significant events in the fair programme, along with concerts, sporting events and bullfighting.
During the months of September and October, different events of a solidarity nature take place, with the aim of raising funds to keep development, training and research activities. The Duchenne Association Fundraising Gala, APAMA Walkathon and AFA Walkathon are some of the events that take place for this purpose.
At the end of the year, the Tapas Route takes place, a tasting of typical local dishes that attracts visitors from all over the region.
The Friends of the Horse Meeting is a local event held in mid-October which, since it was first organized more than a decade ago, has gained regional fame. After a tour of Puerto Serrano and the Greenway, races and gymkhanas are organized to liven up the day.
El Bosque, town of Christian traditions, commemorates the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. The procession of Ntro. Padre Jesús Nazareno y Mª Santísima de los Dolores takes place on Maundy Thursday.
The Resurrected Bull of Benamahoma puts the final touch to the town’s Holy Week. The release of the animal takes place at midday, when it runs through the streets under strict security measures.
In the summer of 2008 the celebration of the White Night, a day of extensive cultural programming with different themes. Plays, puppet shows, classical music concerts, open days at the Museum, poetry recitals, rock performances, storytellers and fun runs are just some of the many activities organized for this occasion.
Between the sierras of La Viña and El Caíllo, in the highest part of the valley of La Manga de Villaluenga, is the Villaluenga Canyon. This geological landmark has three of the four chasms that make up the Villaluenga-Alta Ruta-La Raja system: the Chasm of Villaluenga, of la Raja, Alta Ruta Chasm and Maki Chasm. Due to the large entrance cavity and its location, the Chasm of Villaluenga is the most attractive for speleological activities.
On Albarracín Mount, 2.5 km from the village, there is a hang-gliding and paragliding take-off runway. Every year in this environment, the scoring trials for the Andalusian Hang-Gliding Championship are held.
Holy Week in Benaocaz is one of the most eagerly awaited events in the local calendar. Thursday and Friday are considered the most important days by the community due to the excitement of the processions of Saint Juan Bautista and the Virgen de los Dolores. At the same time, religious functions and ceremonies are held throughout the week.
The streets of Bornos dress up every year on the occasion of Corpus Christi, a festivity that coincides with the first communion season, which is why many children accompany the image of the saint on its route through the municipality.
The people of Espera do not forget those who had to pack their bags and leave the municipality in search of employment and economic stability. As a tribute, cultural and musical activities are organized in August around the Emigrant Party.
The Olvera Carnival is celebrated the weekend before Ash Wednesday, normally during the month of February. During the 7 days it lasts, music, color and humor take to the streets of Olvera in the form of parades, which are accompanied by performances by ‘chirigotas’. During the weekend there is the Piñata Sunday, the grand finale to a week that attracts more and more people every year.
In August, Bornos once again revives its carnival atmosphere thanks to the Carnival Night, an activity organized by the Bornos Club which brings together more and more visitors every year and aims to liven up the wait for one night until the eagerly awaited month of February.
The Carnival festivities take place between February and March and are a great tradition, with an enormous local participation every year. ‘Chirigotas’ and parades fill the streets of the municipality during the celebrations. Every year, the opening speech gives way to the performances of the groups, where adults and children have their place; and finally, the awarding of tribute plaques and the burial of La Algarroba are the events that mark the closing of this festivity.
The arrival of February brings with it the celebration of the Carnival of Alcalá, which is preceded by the Popular ‘Chochá’, a well-known local festivity with carnival performances and a lunch in which the whole town gets involved.
Once the summer season is over, every year Grazalema relives one of the episodes that have most marked the history of the town. When October arrives and for three days, more than half a thousand people take part in the recreation of the life of José María Hinojosa ‘El Tempranillo’, one of the best-known figures of Andalusian romantic banditry, who lived in the Sierra in the mid-17th century.
The Carnival of Arcos, revived in the 80s, follows the same trend as in the whole province, being a celebration full of music and fun. It reached its peak at the beginning of the 20th century, and managed to survive the prohibitions clandestinely in the countryside. ‘Comparsas’, ‘cuartetos’, ‘chirigotas’ and ‘murgas’ accompany the parade of floats and costumes in the biggest week of February.
In February, Carnival takes place in many parts of the country, and Ubrique is not far behind in the celebration of these festivities. Different events take place throughout the second month of the year, enlivened by the lyrics of the carnival groups.
Due to the good reception it received in 2005, the Living Nativity Scene continues to be one of the most special Christmas activities in El Gastor. Every year, the villagers and the streets of the town dress up in period costumes to give way to recreations of scenes and trades.
On the other hand, Christmas sweets are made by hand in local confectioneries, who put the gastronomic touch to these festivities. After the New Year’s Eve celebration in the Town Hall Square, it is the great Cavalcade of the Three Kings that puts the finishing touch with a parade where the little ones are the undisputed protagonists of the day.
The Elderly Cultural Week, held in November, is a seven-day programme of cultural, recreational and informative activities aimed at paying tribute to the senior citizens of Espera.
Holy Week in Espera is a clear reflection of the deep fervor of the people for one of the most deeply rooted traditions in Andalusia. Seven days where the processions of five brotherhoods cause feelings and faith on edge. (Semana Santa)
The town of Puerto Serrano bids farewell to the year with its traditional Candles Festivity, which lights up the entrance of the new year in the Town Hall Square. Fireworks, music and champagne accompany the inhabitants of the municipality all night long.
The Living Nativity Scene of Benamahoma is one of the most important festive events in the town. The celebration begins with a Christmas ‘Zambombá’. In the streets of the town several Christian scenes are recreated: the arrival of the Virgin Mary and Joseph to the inn, the birth of Jesus and the arrival and adoration of the Three Magic Kings.
All this in a Christmas atmosphere, in which associations, neighbors and businesses of Benamahoma turn to transform this corner with costumes and props of the time.
Alháquime once again dresses up for Corpus Christi, where the town fills its streets and façades with flowers and small altars. On the morning of Corpus Christi, Holy Mass is celebrated and then the procession sets off in procession, making stops at the small shrines scattered around the town and erected for the occasion.
Since its reconquest in 1483, Zahara has celebrated the Corpus Christi festival every June, one of the most fervent among its inhabitants. As Zahara is the only Andalusian municipality where this festivity has been awarded the distinction of Festivity of National Tourist Interest, the Corpus Christi has maintained its programme of festivities practically unchanged, although it has adapted to modern times and has included cultural activities, such as photography competitions and exhibitions, all in keeping with the religious nature of the festivity. Such is the renown that the Zahara Corpus Christi has acquired that its population is quintupled by visitors during the period of the festivities.
The Carnival of Bornos, which takes place in February, as in the rest of the localities, is a deep-rooted tradition that has even been declared of Tourist Interest in Andalusia. Considered to be the most eagerly awaited fiesta in the town, it managed to survive censorship, making it a fundamental part of the town’s history. Two weeks before, the Carnival Group begins to organize activities such as the “morcillá”, where the tasting of blood sausages is accompanied by the musical performances of different groups.
Every year, the town celebrates its annual Cultural Week, organized by the namesake association. During the 8 days that it lasts, the Bornos calendar is full of different activities, such as theatre, musical performances, guided tours and workshops. An opportunity to approach the town from a cultural perspective, where both adults and children have a place these days.
The Aguardiente Bull, considered the first running of bulls in the Peninsula, is a celebration that coincides with the New Year. The route, of approximately 500 meters, runs along Pedro Sanz Street, which is decorated and prepared for the occasion. The origin of the name of this festivity comes from the liquor bottles that were left along the street. Although this event dates back to the 19th century, it did not escape the censorship of the Civil War and would not be revived until the subsequent Democratic Transition.
For three days at the end of November, the town of Espera holds its Medieval Market. Los Toros street is the place chosen for the setting up of different stalls where typical products of the area are sold and tasted, as well as artisan products whose manufacture can be seen at the time. These days are accompanied by shows, exhibitions, dance performances, games and music.
