Feria del Jamón de Villanueva de Córdoba

Introduction and local significance

The Feria del Jamón de Villanueva de Córdoba is a gastronomic event of reference in the Córdoba region of Los Pedroches, paying tribute to its star product. This edition takes place from 5 to 8 November 2026, bringing together professionals, locals, and visitors around the culture of Iberian pork. The event stands out for the quality of its pieces protected by the Denomination of Origin Los Pedroches, establishing itself as a key point for the sector. Attending this celebration allows one to learn firsthand about the artisanal production processes and taste the best products derived from the dehesa.

Historical origins and tradition

The fair arises as a direct evolution of the traditional rural fairs and markets of the Los Pedroches region, where extensive livestock farming and montanera have been the economic and cultural foundation for generations. The dehesa serves as the reference landscape that sustains this entire tradition, complemented by the work of the ham cutter, which has become a true visual spectacle. The event also highlights ancestral practices such as montanera and exclusive acorn feeding, reflecting the deep know-how of artisanal charcuterie. Additionally, the days are completed with the traditional presence of orchestras and open-air dances that enliven the nights of the municipality during the celebration dates.

Programme and main events

The official programme of the Feria del Jamón de Villanueva de Córdoba includes numerous cultural and musical proposals that complement the main gastronomic offering. The events are mainly distributed between the Patio del IES La Jara, which hosts the exhibition area and the busy Túnel del Jamón, and the car park of the Pabellón Municipal, home to the large Popular Tasting Area. As the official schedule already details the specific calendar, it is worth noting that visitors can enjoy highlighted events such as the Túnel del Jamón at different time slots and live musical performances. Among the scheduled artists are Rafa del Calli with his show Cante de mi Sangre, Los Inocentes, the Charanga Pata Negra, the much-anticipated concert by Los Aslándticos, the folk performances by Jara and Granito, DJ Valdi's sessions, and the Charanga Gata Brass. It is advisable to check the official channels before attending to confirm any last-minute changes to the performance times.

Traditional festival food

The star product and absolute protagonist of the days is the Jamón de Bellota 100% Ibérico DOP Los Pedroches, usually presented in a 80-gram plate cut by hand on-site, as well as in whole pieces and sliced formats. Alongside this delicacy, attendees can purchase and taste other protected and properly identified cured meats. The gastronomic offering consists of the following traditional products and dishes:

• Jamón de Bellota 100% Ibérico DOP Los Pedroches: Pieces protected by the denomination, sliced or cut by hand.
• Salchichón 100% ibérico: Cured sausage made with Iberian pork and packaged according to regulations.
• Chorizo 100% ibérico: Traditional local charcuterie product made with 100% Iberian meat.
• Caña de lomo 100% ibérico: Meat piece authorised for sale and tasting at the stalls.
• Migas “tostás”: Traditional recipe from Villanueva de Córdoba linked to Mediterranean tradition with olive oil.
• “Ajo migao”: Typical preparation of the local popular gastronomy.
• Chanfaina: Unique dish traditionally associated with slaughter days.
• Salmorejo jarote: Local delicacy made with chicken or partridge, deeply rooted and with little diffusion outside the locality.

Visitor guide and where to stay

The main activities of the fair are concentrated in the Pabellón Municipal of Villanueva de Córdoba and its surroundings, a space designed to accommodate the large expected influx of visitors. It is advisable to book accommodation well in advance, either in the municipality itself or in nearby towns, which greatly facilitates following the night events without logistical issues. During the days of highest visitor influx, it is preferable to use public transport or park vehicles outside the urban centre to avoid congestion. Additionally, it is recommended to consult the official programme before heading to the venue, as the times and events may undergo last-minute changes according to the organisation.