Fiestas de San Blas en La Montaña en Torrelavega

Introduction and local significance

Las Fiestas de San Blas en La Montaña in Torrelavega mark the start of the annual festive calendar in the neighbourhoods and population centres that make up this Cantabrian municipality. This celebration, dedicated to the patron saint San Blas, has confirmed its official dates for this edition: from 24 January to 3 February 2026. The event's programme combines religious services, popular sporting events and cultural activities, offering an appealing option for those wishing to discover the local customs of the area.

Historical origins and tradition

The character of this festival in La Montaña is defined by the preservation of rituals linked to the rural culture of Cantabria. The festivity includes specific events such as the blessing of the rosemary sprigs, a customary religious appointment that precedes the central moments of the celebration. Likewise, the Subida en Albarcas (Ascent in Traditional Wooden Clogs) is particularly relevant, a traditional practice that highlights the inhabitants' connection with the region's historic wooden footwear. This activity, which reaches its twenty-second edition this year, is one of the identity pillars of the event.

Programme and main events

The schedule for Las Fiestas de San Blas en La Montaña in Torrelavega structures its cultural and social offerings around local traditions and leisure. Among the proposals that make up the official programme, the High Mass in honour of San Blas and the blessing of the rosemary sprigs stand out, alongside recreational events such as the classic car and motorbike exhibition. Competitions and traditional games are also organised, such as the parchís and flor card game marathon, in addition to unique contests like the 2nd International Paca (Straw Bale) Throwing Competition. Music occupies a prominent place through the Folk Festival, which features the participation of Banduca Labrigu Naheba and Tudanca. To check the complete list of times and locations, it is recommended to review the detailed official programme in the upper section of this guide.

Traditional festival food

The characteristic culinary element during the days of festivities in La Montaña is the gathering of ollas ferroviarias (traditional railway stew pots).

• Ollas ferroviarias: This is a gastronomic gathering included in the programme where participants prepare and display their dishes.

This event has established itself as a meeting point for attendees, allowing them to get a close look at this aspect of local cuisine during the course of the fiesta.

Visitor guide and where to stay

To enjoy these festivities, it is important to plan your travel, especially if you are accessing the core area where the events take place. It is recommended to prioritise the use of public transport or look for parking in the outer areas to avoid the crowds typical of the days with the highest attendance. It is essential to check the programme before travelling, as specific conditions or circumstances may lead to changes in schedules or the exact location of scheduled activities.

Regarding accommodation, it is advisable to make reservations in advance, given the influx of people during the dates indicated. Staying in the municipality of Torrelavega itself or in nearby towns allows you to follow both the morning events and the activities that extend into the later hours with greater comfort. Following these organisational guidelines will facilitate access to the different spaces set up for the celebrations.