Fiestas medievales de Olite

Introduction and local significance

The Olite Medieval Festival in Olite, recognised as a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest, will be held from 12-14 September 2026. This event turns the town into a historical landmark in the Chartered Community of Navarre thanks to its programme and atmosphere. Its celebration allows visitors to walk the streets of the town whilst enjoying activities linked to its medieval past.

Historical origins and tradition

This celebration has been organised since 1994, the year that marked the 555th anniversary of the wedding of Charles, Prince of Viana, and the Burgundian princess Agnes of Cleves, which took place on 30 September 1439. The main purpose of the Olite Medieval Festival is to restore the splendour of the era in which the town served as the seat of the Royal Court of Navarre. During the weekend, the town is decked out to host opening parades featuring kings, princes, jugglers, archers and falconers, as well as traditional dances in the squares and streets. The programme also includes a medieval market with more than 70 stalls, chess matches and archery demonstrations, with the participation of more than 150 local residents and associations.

Programme and main events

The official programme for this edition includes highlights such as the presentation of scarves to prominent local figures, scheduled for 12 September at 19:00, and the popular 'chocolatada' (a traditional gathering featuring hot chocolate and pastries) which will take place on 14 September at 10:00. For full details of the timetables, venues and other events planned during the festival, it is recommended to consult the official programme before your visit.

Traditional festival food

During the celebration in the town, the presence of the wineries of Olite (Erriberri) is evident, as they are linked to the local festive activities.

Visitor guide and where to stay

To plan your visit to the Olite Medieval Festival, it is advisable to book accommodation in advance, both in the town itself and in nearby towns, to make it easier to follow the events. Due to the influx of visitors during the festival, it is preferable to use public transport or leave your vehicle parked outside the town centre. It is also convenient to check any updates to the scheduled activity times before travelling.