Fiestas de la Virgen del Pilar en Quijorna

Introduction and local significance

The Fiestas de la Virgen del Pilar in Quijorna are the main patron saint celebrations of this municipality in the region of Madrid. This edition officially takes place from 9 to 12 October 2026, concentrating the most intense days of the festival programme. The local council has organised a schedule that combines musical events, bullfighting dates and traditional religious events in honour of the patron saint.

Historical origins and tradition

The festivities revolve around devotion to the Virgen del Pilar, whose main feast day gathers locals and visitors around the Parroquia San Juan Evangelista. The religious celebrations maintain the traditional format of a mass followed by a procession through the streets of the town. These liturgical events form the core around which the rest of the town's local traditions are structured.

Programme and main events

The official programme spans from the opening speech to the closing of the recreational activities. The most prominent events are scheduled as follows:

• Friday 9 at 21:00: Opening speech (pregón) in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
• Friday 9 at 00:00: Fireworks display in front of the Príncipes de Asturias school, followed by the Orquesta Maxims.
• Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 at 11:00: Bull run (encierro) in Calle Virgen del Pilar, followed by bullfighting events at 17:00.
• Saturday 10 at 22:30: Comedy bingo in the Carpa de Fiestas and performance by the Orquesta La Mundial.
• Sunday 11 at 12:00: Children's Masterchef in the Parque del Molino.
• Monday 12 at 12:00: Mass and procession at the Parroquia San Juan Evangelista.
• Monday 12 at 14:30: Communal cocido (traditional chickpea stew) in the Carpa de Fiestas, and hot chocolate with churros for the elderly at 17:30.

Traditional festival food

The most representative gastronomic event of the Fiestas de la Virgen del Pilar in Quijorna is the communal cocido (a traditional chickpea and meat stew). This meal takes place on Monday 12 October at 14:30 in the Carpa de Fiestas for the price of three euros. Furthermore, the programme includes a chocolatada (hot chocolate gathering) aimed at the town's elderly residents, held on the same Monday at 17:30.

Visitor guide and where to stay

It is advisable to book accommodation in advance to secure a place during the festival dates. Staying in the municipality itself or in nearby towns makes it easier to attend the scheduled evening events. On peak days, it is best to use public transport or park outside the town centre. It is worth checking official channels before travelling, as timetables and events may be subject to change.