Photo: Pedro Coronado Vázquez · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Food festival
Feria de la Castaña en Cabeza la Vaca
Cabeza la Vaca, Badajoz · Extremadura
2026 edition
30 October – 1 November 2026
✔ Official dates confirmed
2026 programme
- Musical performances and opening of stalls in the Plaza de España on 30 October.
- Performances by the Grupo Folclórico Los Jateros and the band Diversiones.
- Concert by 'Vinilo Milk' on 1 November.
Sources: Web oficial del Ayuntamiento de Cabeza la Vaca (cabezalavaca.es) · Hoy · cabezalavaca.es
Introduction and local significance
The Feria de la Castaña in Cabeza la Vaca (Badajoz, Extremadura) is officially celebrated from 30 October to 1 November 2026, according to confirmed data for its current edition. This gastronomic event revolves entirely around this autumn fruit and invites those interested to participate in the activities organised in the municipality during these days. It is advisable to consider the general recommendations provided by the organisation to properly plan attendance at the various events scheduled in the Badajoz town.
Historical origins and tradition
The official sources from the town hall of Cabeza la Vaca do not currently provide specific data on the historical origins of this gastronomic fair. There are also no details in the institutional information regarding ancient traditional rites or the evolution of its characters or costumes specific to this festival. The celebration is strictly organised around the officially set days for the current edition, with no documented references to previous years within the records available on the official website.
Programme and main events
Since the official programme is already detailed specifically in the above section, here we highlight the key points that mark the pulse of the event without duplicating the daily schedules. Among the highlighted moments are the musical performances and the opening of stalls in the Plaza de España scheduled for the start of the fair on 30 October. Attendees can also enjoy performances by the Grupo Folclórico Los Jateros and the band Diversiones during the days. The performance calendar also includes a concert by the group 'Vinilo Milk' planned for 1 November.
Traditional festival food
As this is a gastronomic fair focused on this fruit, the activities and main theme revolve around the castaña (chestnut) in the town of Cabeza la Vaca. The official sources of the festival do not specify a concrete traditional recipe collection nor detail additional typical dishes for these autumn dates. The available institutional information is limited to framing the event within this theme without delving into other specific culinary resources from the province of Badajoz.
Visitor guide and where to stay
For the days of highest attendance at the Feria de la Castaña in Cabeza la Vaca, it is preferable to use public transport or park vehicles outside the urban centre of the town. It is advisable to book accommodation well in advance to ensure a stay during the dates when the celebration takes place. Staying in the town itself or opting for nearby locations makes it easier to comfortably follow the scheduled night events. Before travelling, remember to always check the official programme, as times and events may change according to the organisation.