Photo: Luisangelzas · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Patron saint festival
Fiestas Patronales de San Fernando de Henares
San Fernando de Henares, Madrid · Comunidad de Madrid
2026 edition
13–18 February 2026
✔ Official dates confirmed
2026 programme
- Friday, 13 February, 16:30h: Children's Carnival parade from 'Cuatro Esquinas'
- Friday, 13 February, 18:00h: Concert by the group Zascanduri in Plaza de España
- Saturday, 14 February, 12:00h: Performance by chirigotas (carnival satiric groups) and comparsas (troupes) in Plaza Fábrica de Paños
- Saturday, 14 February, 17:00h: Great Adult Carnival parade from Plaza de España
- Saturday, 14 February, 19:30h: Costume and troupe contest in Plaza de España
- Saturday, 14 February, 22:00h: Dance with Orquesta Krypton in Plaza de España
- Saturday, 14 February, 00:15h: Prize-giving ceremony in Plaza de España
- Tuesday, 17 February, 17:00h: Seniors' Carnival with dancing, parade and costume contest at Centro MultiFuncional José Saramago
- Wednesday, 18 February, 17:00h: Wake for the Burning of the Sardine at Teatro F. García Lorca
- Wednesday, 18 February, 18:00h: Parade and funeral procession from Teatro F. García Lorca to Plaza de España
- Wednesday, 18 February, 19:00h: Burning and popular sardine feast in Plaza de España
- Wednesday, 18 February, 19:30h: EMMD Joaquín de Luz concert with Broken Toys and Talkomosomos in Plaza de España
Sources: ayto-sanfernando.com · ayto-sanfernando.com · Web oficial del Ayuntamiento de San Fernando de Henares (ayto-sanfernando.com)
Where it is and getting there
Recinto Ferial · Estación de Metro Jarama / Parque Dolores Ibárruri · San Fernando de Henares
Sources: www.ayto-sanfernando.com
Introduction and local significance
The Patron Saint Festivities of San Fernando de Henares take place from 13 to 18 February 2026 in this municipality in the Community of Madrid. This event combines patron saint celebrations with carnival traditions, drawing locals and visitors to spots such as Plaza de España and Plaza Fábrica de Paños. The City Council allocates resources to ensure the events run smoothly on the designated dates.
Historical origins and tradition
This celebration maintains deeply rooted local customs linked to the municipality's festive calendar. Popular events combine citizen participation with traditional gatherings such as the parade of troupes and the subsequent burial of the sardine.
Programme and main events
Given that the official programme features multiple events detailed in the top section, the key moments that shape the festive calendar are worth highlighting. These stand out including the Children's Carnival parade from 'Cuatro Esquinas', the Great Adult Carnival parade in Plaza de España, the dance entertained by the Orquesta Krypton, and the traditional funeral procession that culminates with the burning and popular sardine feast. It is recommended to check the specific schedules for each day to plan attendance at these events.
Traditional festival food
During the days of celebration, the local culinary offer accompanies the festive events in the streets and squares of the municipality. Although no specific dishes exclusive to this edition are mentioned in official documents, traditional Madrid gastronomy is present in local establishments throughout the festive days.
Visitor guide and where to stay
To access the events, the security arrangement establishes areas of interest at the Fairground, located next to the Jarama Metro station and Parque Dolores Ibárruri. Fixed Purple Points will be set up in these locations alongside an itinerant one. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance for the festival dates and to use public transport on the busiest days. It is necessary to respect the temporary fencing and access rules in the designated areas.