Fiestas de Santa Ana en Tudela

Introduction and local significance

The Fiestas de Santa Ana in Tudela are a patron saint celebration declared as a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest, held in the municipality of Navarre. This official edition takes place from 24 to 30 July 2026 in honour of Santa Ana, the patron saint of the city of Tudela. Community participation and the fundamental role of the peñas (local social clubs), with their brass bands and the organisation of specific events, mark the course of these festive days in the Foral Community of Navarre. A dense and popular festive programme thrills both citizens and visitors who fill the streets throughout the entire week.

Historical origins and tradition

Religious and festive events feature unique highlights such as La Revoltosa, a traditional dance that originated spontaneously in the early 20th century. This dance consists of spinning around the bandstand in the Plaza de los Fueros while the municipal band plays, alternating slow and fast tempos in which participants run as fast as possible. The definitive version of this well-known dance was premiered by Luis Gil Lasheras during the Santa Ana festivities in 1941. The streets become infused with tradition thanks to the continuous presence of the Comparsa de Gigantes y Cabezudos (figures of giants and big-heads), the txistularis (traditional Basque flute players), the gaiteros (bagpipers) and the Tudela Municipal Dance Group, who escort the statues along the procession routes. The bullfighting fair and the gathering of giants complete the highlights of the festive events.

Programme and main events

To complement the official programme of the Fiestas de Santa Ana in Tudela, highly anticipated events shape the festive calendar from start to finish. Among the notable events are traditional acts, religious celebrations and bullfighting events:

• 24 July, 12:00: Opening firework rocket announcing the start of the fiestas in the Plaza de los Fueros.
• 25 July, 09:30: Procession of Santiago, starting from the Cathedral and touring the old town.
• 25-30 July, 08:00: Daily running of the bulls followed by the release of heifers in the bullring.
• 26 July, 06:50: Procession of Santa Ana la Vieja, starting from the Iglesia de la Magdalena and touring the old town.
• 26 July, 11:30: Procession of Our Patron Saint Santa Ana from the Cathedral towards the old town.
• 30 July, 24:00: Pobre de Mí event marking the end of the fiestas in Tudela.

Traditional festival food

During the festive days, activity in the town is notably concentrated in hospitality establishments and spaces set up by the peñas. Although official documents do not detail a specific traditional recipe book for this patron saint celebration, social life and meeting points revolve around the offerings of bars, restaurants and social venues. Visitors coming to Tudela during these dates enjoy a vibrant atmosphere in the venues of the old town and along the main streets where the programme's events take place.

Visitor guide and where to stay

It is advisable to book accommodation well in advance for the dates of the fiesta, either in the municipality itself or in nearby towns that make it easier to follow the night events and early morning schedule. On days with the highest public turnout, it is preferable to use public transport or leave vehicles parked outside the town centre to access the festive venues more easily. Before travelling, it is recommended to check official channels to verify any changes to schedules and planned events. Additionally, it is necessary to keep in mind the times of the bull runs and processions to plan walking routes through the streets of the old town.