Fiestas de Santo Tomás en Benicasim

Introduction and local significance

Las Fiestas de Santo Tomás in Benicasim take place this year from 22 to 28 September 2026 in honour of Santo Tomás de Villanueva, patron saint of the parish church in this town located in the province of Castellón and in the Comunitat Valenciana. It is well worth planning a visit to experience firsthand official events marked by the high level of participation from residents, peñas (local social clubs) and visitors coming to the municipality.

Historical origins and tradition

These festivities revolve strictly around the figure of Santo Tomás de Villanueva and mobilise the local population through the direct involvement of peñas and various traditional groups in the municipality. Devotion to the patron saint of the parish church structures the most solemn and religious moments of the festive events in Benicasim. This associative network underpins the calendar of events and reinforces the participatory nature of all the days dedicated to the saint.

Programme and main events

Among the central highlights of the programme are the official proclamation of the festival queens and ladies of honour, the solemn midday mass and the subsequent procession in honour of the saint through the streets of the town. The programme also includes various bull-running events, musical performances, theatrical plays, folklore and children's activities such as the fancy dress parade with an afternoon snack and confetti battle. The grand finale of the celebrations is brought by the traditional correfoc (fire-run) performed by the group "Els Déus del Foc". Full details of timetables and venues can be checked in the official programme before attending the events.

Traditional festival food

Official documentation for Las Fiestas de Santo Tomás in Benicasim does not feature exclusive gastronomic dishes or specific traditional recipes directly associated with this particular September festival. Attendees visiting the municipality during the celebration can make use of the dining options available in the local establishments of the Castellón town.

Visitor guide and where to stay

It is advisable to book accommodation in advance for the dates of Las Fiestas de Santo Tomás in Benicasim, either in the municipality itself or in nearby towns, which makes it easier to comfortably follow the events scheduled into the night. On days with the highest visitor numbers, it is preferable to use public transport or choose to park outside the central hub of the municipality. Before travelling, it is highly recommended to consult the official programme, as timetables and scheduled events may be subject to last-minute changes.