Photo: Rodelar · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Food festival
I Feria del Queso en El Carpio de Tajo
El Carpio de Tajo, Toledo · Castilla-La Mancha
2026 edition
23–25 October 2026
✔ Official dates confirmed
Introduction and local significance
The I Feria del Queso en El Carpio de Tajo is a gastronomic event that will be held from 23 to 25 October 2026. This fair is dedicated to the promotion of cheese culture, bringing together some of the most renowned varieties in Spain. Plaza de España will be the epicentre of this celebration, which aims to highlight local gastronomic wealth and attract visitors to the municipality.
Historical origins and tradition
The cheese-making tradition in El Carpio de Tajo dates back to past generations, where cheese production has been a pillar of the region's economy and culture. At the fair, attendees can observe rituals such as cheese tastings and workshops highlighting traditional techniques. Participants often wear traditional attire and emphasis is placed on local products, creating an atmosphere that celebrates the area's cultural heritage.
Programme and main events
During the I Feria del Queso, various cheese-centred activities will take place. Highlights include talk-tastings, such as "El arte de comer queso" on Friday, and "Conociendo los quesos de Hualdo" on Saturday. Tasting workshops will also be offered, where attendees can act as a jury in a cheese-tasting competition. These activities, along with cheese and wine tastings, will be complemented by live music. For more details on the schedule and specific events, it is recommended to consult the official programme.
Traditional festival food
The fair will offer a wide variety of renowned cheeses, including Queso Manchego (Manchego cheese), Idiazabal (Idiazabal cheese), and Torta del Casar (Casar cheese torta), among others. These cheeses are typical of various regions of Spain and can be tasted during the different scheduled activities. Local gastronomy is also complemented by wines with designations of origin, such as Rueda and Rías Baixas, which accompany the fair's culinary experience.
Visitor guide and where to stay
To get to El Carpio de Tajo, you can travel by car, and it is advisable to park outside the centre on days with higher attendance. Plaza de España is the venue where the fair will take place. It is recommended to use public transport, especially during peak hours.
To stay overnight, it is advisable to book in advance, as the event will attract many visitors. Staying in the municipality itself or in nearby towns will make it easier to attend the evening events. Before travelling, it is recommended to consult the official programme, as schedules and events may be subject to change.