Photo: Oilisab · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Patron saint festival
Fiestas de Septiembre en honor a la Virgen de la Granja en Yunquera de Henares
Yunquera de Henares, Guadalajara · Castilla-La Mancha
2026 edition
8–19 September 2026
✔ Official dates confirmed
2026 programme
- Firework display
- Communal paella
- Live music
- Novillada of 'La Bajada'
Sources: yunqueradehenares.com · yunqueradehenares.com · Web oficial del Ayuntamiento de Yunquera de Henares (yunqueradehenares.com)
Where it is and getting there
Plaza de Toros “Las Traviesas” · Yunquera de Henares
Sources: www.yunqueradehenares.com
Introduction and local significance
Las Fiestas de Septiembre in honour of the Virgen de la Granja in Yunquera de Henares take place this year from 8 to 19 September 2026. This patronal festival combines religious devotion with a bullfighting and social programme held throughout the municipality. Travellers who decide to visit will find a town fully dedicated to its traditions, making it an ideal occasion to observe local culture and the camaraderie among peñas (social clubs) and residents during these days.
Historical origins and tradition
The tradition of these festivities revolves around the devotion to the patron saint, whose image takes centre stage in the procession of Nuestra Señora de la Granja, an essential event in the calendar. The festive heritage is further enriched by bullfighting events, which maintain the custom of the encierro por el campo (running of the bulls through the countryside). Likewise, the fireworks launched from the Ronda de San Antonio serve as a visual landmark during the festivities, marking key moments throughout the days of celebration in the local streets.
Programme and main events
The organisation of Las Fiestas de Septiembre in honour of the Virgen de la Granja in Yunquera de Henares balances liturgical ceremonies with leisure activities aimed at attendees. Among the events that structure the agenda, the religious procession, the encierro por el campo and the novillada de La Bajada stand out, drawing fans of the bullfighting world. The offering is completed by firework displays and live music concerts, in addition to spaces dedicated to shared meals. To plan your visit accurately, it is recommended to consult the official programme available in this guide, which details the exact times of each gathering, as events may be subject to change by the organisers.
Traditional festival food
The social component of these festivities is also expressed through its culinary offering, centred on shared meals among attendees. The star dish of the festivities is:
- Paella popular (large communal rice dish): This is a dish cooked to be enjoyed collectively by residents, peñas and local associations. It usually takes place in meeting spaces such as the Plaza de La Casilla, fostering social interaction during the festive days.
Visitor guide and where to stay
The main venue for bullfighting activity is the Plaza de Toros “Las Traviesas”. Due to the influx of visitors the municipality receives during these dates, it is preferable to use public transport to get around. If travelling by private vehicle, it is recommended to park outside the central areas to avoid traffic restrictions and potential access difficulties.
Regarding accommodation, it is advisable to book in advance, as demand increases during the celebration dates. Staying either in Yunquera de Henares itself or in neighbouring towns is an effective option to follow the evening events without logistical complications. It is advised to keep an eye out for any changes to schedules or access before starting your trip.