Fiestas en Honor a la Virgen de la Plaza en Elciego

Introduction and local significance

The Fiestas in Honor of the Virgen de la Plaza in Elciego represent the most prominent patron saint celebration in this municipality in the Álava province. This edition takes place from 7 to 11 September 2026, although the festive schedule includes prior events and preparations starting from the first days of the month. Locals and visitors gather around a broad calendar of religious, cultural and leisure events that bring energy to the entire municipality. Devotion to the patron saint sets the pace for a few days where local tradition combines with music and popular participation in the streets.

Historical origins and tradition

These festivities are deeply tied to religious rituals dedicated to the patron saint, notably the novena held at the Ermita de la Virgen de la Plaza and the Iglesia de San Andrés. Among the most unique moments of local tradition is the pinning of neckerchiefs on new residents, an institutional act held alongside the descent of Barrihuelo following the txupinazo (opening rocket). The religious programme reaches its climax with the processional transfer and the procession of the Virgen de la Plaza, accompanied by the Banda de Música, the Grupo de Danzas and the Gaiteros de Elciego, in addition to the singing of the popular Salve during the floral offering. The festivities officially conclude with the burial of Barrihuelo and his corpore insepulto funeral mass in the Plaza Mayor Luis Aldazabal.

Programme and main events

The official programme of the Fiestas in Honor of the Virgen de la Plaza in Elciego ranges from sporting events such as the pelota match between Josu Olaetxea and Jon Lazkoz against Koldo Murgiondo and Iván Azanza at the Frontón Luis Aldazabal, to large-scale musical performances. Highlights include the festival opening speech delivered by Manu García, the txupinazo from the Town Hall balcony given by Paco García Basoco, and musical dates with groups such as the Asociación Musical Santa Cecilia, the Gaiteros de Elciego and the Txaranga Dkalle. The leisure offer includes performances by the Castellers Capgrossos de Mataró, rock concerts such as those by Reincidentes and Eskroto Roto, and night-time dances hosted by orchestras like Escala, Titanes Show and Edelweiss. To check the detailed schedules for each day, it is recommended to review the official schedule available locally.

Traditional festival food

Gastronomy during the festivities revolves around local products and popular events organised in the town centre. During the festive days, highly anticipated culinary events take place, such as the charity mushroom tasting in aid of Battir Women’s Cooperative Society at the Plaza Mayor Luis Aldazabal. Likewise, the programme includes several popular tastings and fellowship meals, such as the youth meal organised in the school gymnasium. The daily vermuts (aperitifs) enlivened by pipers and brass bands in the village bars invite visitors to stroll through the streets and enjoy the festive atmosphere through various proposals:

• Charity mushroom tasting in aid of Battir Women’s Cooperative Society
• Musical aperitifs enlivened by the Gaiteros de Elciego and the Txaranga Dkalle
• Youth meal organised in the municipal school gymnasium

Visitor guide and where to stay

The main hub of events is concentrated around the Plaza Mayor Luis Aldazabal, the Ermita, the Town Hall and the municipal Frontón. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance for the festival dates, either in the municipality itself or in nearby towns, making it easier to enjoy the night-time events without worry. On the busiest days, it is preferable to park outside the town centre and walk in due to traffic restrictions and crowds. Absolute prohibition is reminded regarding the sale and throwing of firecrackers, bangers or any pyrotechnic device, except by authorised personnel, and the Town Hall warns that it is not responsible for any damage caused by the toro de fuego (fire bull). Furthermore, the institutional commitment that no type of sexist aggression will be tolerated during the festivities is strongly emphasised.