Feria de ganado en Cantalojas

Introduction and local significance

The Feria de Ganado en Cantalojas (Guadalajara) is celebrating its 40th edition on 12 October 2026. This event is officially recognised as a Festival of Provincial Tourist Interest and marks four decades since its revival in 1985. On this day, the mountain village brings together eleven livestock farmers from Cantalojas and one from Galve de Sorbe, featuring a prominent presence of cattle, alongside sheep, goats and horses among its approximately 3,000 registered animals.

Historical origins and tradition

The fair already recorded significant activity in 1948 before temporarily losing prominence. It was revived in 1985 thanks to the drive of the Town Council, the Agricultural Chamber and the Provincial Council of Guadalajara to restore a space of recognition for local farming families. This year's programme includes a fifteen-minute audiovisual presentation made with photographs reviewing local history from its earliest records. Tributes will also be paid to Enrique Reus, Paco Muñoz and Julián Arenas for their work in recovering the event.

Programme and main events

• 10:00: Arrival of the livestock at the fairgrounds and official opening, featuring the audiovisual exhibition "La historia de la Feria del Ganado" at the Town Council.
• Morning: Demonstrations of traditional crafts including wood carving, live artistic forging, sheep shearing and a sheepdog handling exhibition.
• Fairgrounds: Exhibition of cattle, sheep, goats and horses, alongside craft stalls, local product sales and a wool processing workshop.
• Plaza Mayor de Cantalojas: Presentation of awards to participating farmers and commemorative plaques given to the founders of the 1985 revival.

Traditional festival food

During the Feria de Ganado de Cantalojas, tastings of Sierra Norte meat are scheduled. Visitors can also purchase local and regional products at the various stalls set up in the fairgrounds throughout the day.

Visitor guide and where to stay

It is advisable to book accommodation well in advance for the festival dates. On the busiest days, public transport or parking outside the centre is recommended. Staying in the village itself or in nearby towns makes it easier to follow the scheduled events. Before travelling, it is recommended to check the official programme, as times and events are subject to change.