Romería de San Pedro de Alcántara en Arenas de San Pedro

Introduction and local significance

The Romería de San Pedro de Alcántara in Arenas de San Pedro (Ávila) is officially celebrated on 19 October 2026. This festivity, classified as a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest, centres around the Sanctuary of San Pedro de Alcántara. The official dates for this edition are confirmed for 19 October 2026.

Historical origins and tradition

The pilgrimage commemorates the journey made by San Pedro de Alcántara in the company of his protectors, the Counts of Oropesa (Don Fernando Álvarez de Toledo and his wife Beatriz de Monroy y Ayala). It was his final journey to the Monastery of San Pedro de Alcántara, where he passed away in the year 1562. Among the rituals, the auction of the banzos (andas poles) stands out before beginning the pilgrimage to the sanctuary. The route is attended by artfully harnessed horses and pilgrims on horseback, by bicycle or on foot. Music is provided by the gaita y tamboril (pipe and tabor) or the gaitilla Filigrana, and the so-called Vítor is celebrated in honour of San Pedro de Alcántara, canonised and crowned in heaven.

Programme and main events

The official programme of the Romería de San Pedro de Alcántara in Arenas de San Pedro includes the following highlight events:

• 17 October: Bullfight featuring Sebastián Castella, Alejandro Talavante and Julio Méndez.
• 19 October: Celebration of the Romería de San Pedro de Alcántara at the Sanctuary of San Pedro de Alcántara.

Traditional festival food

During the festivity, the traditional distribution of limonada (traditional lemon-based alcoholic drink) stands out after the blessing at the sanctuary. This drink is offered to attendees as part of the day's traditional events.

Visitor guide and where to stay

The registration period for the pilgrimage closes on Wednesday the 9th at 15:00 at the town council's intervention department, with the warning that no registrations will be accepted after the deadline. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance for the dates of the festival. On the busiest days, it is preferable to use public transport or park outside the centre. Before travelling, check the official programme, as schedules and events may change. Staying in the municipality itself or in nearby towns makes it easier to follow the scheduled events.