Fiestas de la Virgen del Rosario en Camarma de Esteruelas

Introduction and local significance

The Fiestas de la Virgen del Rosario en Camarma de Esteruelas are the patronal festivals of this municipality in the Community of Madrid. The celebration is jointly organised by the Ayuntamiento and the Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol.

In the 2026 edition, the scheduled events take place from 10 to 13 October 2026. The festivities combine countryside bull runs, large-scale musical performances, religious liturgy, and open-air gastronomic competitions.

Historical origins and tradition

The festival revolves around the patronal veneration of the Virgen del Rosario, enshrined in the Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol. The parish focuses on organising the religious ceremonies, including solemn masses and the procession through the streets of the town.

Alongside the religious tradition, the municipality preserves the custom of encierros camperos (countryside bull runs). These events make use of the natural areas within the municipal boundaries, such as the Gallocanta area, for releasing and herding the cattle.

Programme and main events

The official programme for the Fiestas de la Virgen del Rosario en Camarma de Esteruelas is set across the following dates and venues:

• Saturday 10 October: at 09:30, the traditional countryside bull run begins in the Gallocanta area. At 14:00, the 4th edition of the Virgen del Rosario gachas competition takes place in Plaza del Paseo. At 20:00, Holy Mass and the Procession are held, and at 23:00 the Gran Orquesta PANORAMA performs on the open esplanade in front of the Policía Local station.
• Sunday 11 October: the liturgical day begins with mass at 10:00, followed by the High Mass at 12:00. At 14:00, the charity paella is served, and at 19:00 the Solemn Salve is sung.
• Tuesday 13 October: at 19:00, mass is celebrated for the deceased of Camarma.

Traditional festival food

The culinary offerings of the festival are closely tied to two specific community events on the programme:

• Gachas (a traditional savoury porridge made with flour and seasonings): the 4th edition of the Virgen del Rosario gachas contest takes place on Saturday at 14:00 in Plaza del Paseo. Participants bring their own ingredients to prepare this traditional dish, which is evaluated by a five-member jury that awards trophies to the top three entries.
• Paella solidaria: a large-scale rice dish served on Sunday 11 October at 14:00 to festival attendees for charity.

Visitor guide and where to stay

If you plan to attend the evening events, such as the musical performances, it is convenient to stay within the municipality itself or in nearby towns. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance to secure a room during these dates.

On the busiest days, it is recommended to arrive by public transport or leave your vehicle parked outside the historic town centre. Before heading to the events, it is best to check the official programme in case of any last-minute schedule changes.