Fiestas de Acción de Gracias en Casalarreina

Introduction and local significance

Feria de Acción de Gracias in Casalarreina are celebrated in this town in La Rioja from 25 to 29 September 2026. Over these five days, the municipality hosts a series of activities combining religious devotion, tradition and community spirit. For this edition, Casalarreina Club de Fútbol will deliver the opening speech (pregón), a recognition granted by the town following the club's sporting achievements and recent promotion. These festivities offer an insight into the municipality's customs through a programme of events featuring the active participation of various local groups and entities.

Historical origins and tradition

Fiestas de Acción de Gracias in Casalarreina feature specific rituals centred around the figure of the Virgen del Campo. Traditional events include the procession of the Holy Rosary and the ritual offering of the first grape must, with the participation of local authorities and the festival Queens and Kings. This floral offering includes performances by the Grupo de Danzas Villa de Briones, the Aires del Ebro group and the Casalarreina children's choir. The presence of the Municipal Music Band in the morning parades (pasacalles), alongside the Giants and Big Heads (Gigantes y Cabezudos) troupe, is another tradition defining these days in the town.

Programme and main events

The official programme, which can be viewed in detail in the information sheet above, outlines the five days of festivities. Proceedings begin with the firing of the rocket (cohete) from the Town Hall balcony on Friday 25, followed by the procession of the Holy Rosary and, the following day, the solemn Thanksgiving mass in the parish church of San Martín. Key activities include deeply rooted events such as the release of heifers (suelta de vaquillas) in the bullring, the 37th Popular Wine Tasting and the 46th Fancy Dress Competition. Celebrations conclude on Tuesday 29 with the Burial of the Cask (Entierro de la Cuba), the Fire Bull (Toro de Fuego) and the final firework display (traca). Visitors are advised to check the official programme for any possible changes to event times or locations.

Traditional festival food

Culinary offerings during Fiestas de Acción de Gracias include local products and dishes shared in various public spaces. Attendees can take part in the following food-related events:

• Tasting of picadillo (minced pork dish), organised by the AMPA (Parents' Association).
• Potato omelette (tortilla de patata) tasting at Bar La Canela.
• Popular communal lunch at the El Soto municipal pelota court (frontón).
• Loin and pepper sandwich (bocadillo de lomo con pimientos) tasting in plaza de Icona.
• Paella competition in plaza La Florida.
• Distribution of garlic soup (sopas de ajo) after Monday's parade.

Visitor guide and where to stay

Casalarreina welcomes a large number of visitors during these dates, so it is advisable to plan your journey in advance. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport or park outside the town centre to ease mobility during the busiest days. As the events programme runs into the early hours, staying in the town itself or in nearby villages helps you take part in the nightlife. It is advisable to check the official programme before travelling, as event times and locations may be subject to change. Booking accommodation in advance is a useful strategy to ensure availability.