Fiesta de Nuestra Señora del Carmen y Carmín en Siero

Introduction and local significance

La Fiesta de Nuestra Señora del Carmen y Carmín en Siero, popularly known as the Carmín de La Pola, are the main celebrations of the Asturian parish of La Pola Siero, in the council of Siero. This patronal festival is classified as a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest and is held in the Principality of Asturias. For this edition, the official dates are from 16 to 21 July 2026.

Historical origins and tradition

The festivities revolve around the Día Grande (Main Day), which is celebrated on the Monday following 16 July, the feast day of Nuestra Señora del Carmen. This day stands out for hosting one of the most attended romerías (pilgrimages) in Asturias, an event that has reached 50,000 attendees in recent years. The celebrations combine religious events with the popular romería and night-time verbenas (open-air parties) in the town centre.

Programme and main events

The official programme of the Fiesta de Nuestra Señora del Carmen y Carmín en Siero unfolds with various festive milestones throughout the designated days.

• Thursday of the previous week: start of the festivities with the reading of the proclamation at the Auditorio de Pola de Siero, a day when the fairground is also set up in the park area.
• Monday (Día Grande): celebration of the grand romería, which includes a parade led by charangas (brass bands) at 17:00 from the Les Campes neighbourhood to the prau de La Sobatiella.
• Monday at dusk: descent from the prau back to the centre of Pola de Siero to make way for the verbena next to the Mercado de Abastos and at various spots scattered around the old town.

Traditional festival food

During the days of celebration, attendees can enjoy the traditional culinary offering of the area in local establishments and in the areas set up for the romería. Asturian gastronomy accompanies each of the festive days with typical products of the Principality. It is advisable to check local dining spots to taste the traditional dishes during the dates of the event.

Visitor guide and where to stay

To enjoy the Fiesta de Nuestra Señora del Carmen y Carmín en Siero comfortably, it is advisable to book accommodation in advance for the dates of the festival. Staying in the municipality itself or in nearby towns makes it easier to follow the night-time events organised in the old town. On the days with the highest turnout, it is preferable to use public transport or park outside the town centre. Before travelling, it is recommended to check the official programme, as schedules and events may be subject to changes.