Carnaval de Avilés
As a traveler, if you are looking for a festival that combines color, music, and vibrant energy, then the Carnaval de Avilés is for you. Located in the charming city of Avilés in Asturias, Spain, this festival is a celebration of life and everything that makes it rich and fulfilling.
The Carnaval de Avilés is a week-long celebration that takes place before the beginning of Lent. It is one of the most well-known festivals in Asturias, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year.
During the festival, the streets come alive with color as people dress up in elaborate costumes and parade through the city. The music is an integral part of this festival, and there are numerous bands playing music throughout the day and night, making it impossible not to dance.
The highlight of the Carnaval de Avilés is the Gran Desfile de Carnaval, a grand parade that takes place on the final day of the festival. This parade is an explosion of color, music, and energy, and it is a spectacle like no other.
If you are a foodie, then you will love the Carnaval de Avilés, as you get to taste some of the local delicacies such as the cachopos and fabada. The festival also features numerous street vendors selling delicious snacks and drinks, which are perfect for keeping you energized throughout the day.
The Carnaval de Avilés is a festival that is a must-visit for anyone looking to have an unforgettable experience. So, mark your calendars, pack your bags and get ready to experience the vibrancy, energy, and color of the Carnaval de Avilés.
Descenso Internacional del Sella
Asturias is a region in Spain that is known for its rich culture and traditions. One of the most famous festivals in Asturias is the Descenso Internacional del Sella or the International Descent of the Sella. This festival is a canoeing competition that takes place on the Sella River in Asturias.
The festival was first started in 1930 and since then, it has grown to become one of the most popular events in the region. Every year, thousands of people come to Asturias to watch the competition and participate in the festivities that surround it.
The Descenso Internacional del Sella is a challenging race that covers a distance of 15 kilometers. It starts in the town of Arriondas and ends in Ribadesella. The participants paddle their canoes along the Sella River, navigating through rough waters and competing against each other to reach the finish line first.
The festival is not just about the race, however. It is also a time for people to come together and celebrate. There are many events that take place during the festival, including music concerts, dance performances, and traditional food and drink tastings.
If you are planning to visit Asturias during the Descenso Internacional del Sella, there are many things that you can do to make the most of your trip. You can watch the race from one of the many viewpoints along the Sella River, visit the local markets to sample the delicious food and drink, or participate in some of the traditional dances and games that are part of the festival.
Overall, the Descenso Internacional del Sella is a must-visit festival for anyone who wants to experience the rich culture and traditions of Asturias. Whether you are a fan of canoeing or just want to enjoy the festivities, this festival is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Fiesta de San Agustín
One of the most famous festivals in Asturias is the Fiesta de San Agustín, which takes place every year in the city of Avilés in August. This festival is celebrated for several days, and it’s one of the biggest and most spectacular events of the year in Asturias.
The Fiesta de San Agustín has a long history, dating back to the 17th century. It’s a celebration of the city’s patron saint, San Agustín, and it’s characterized by music, dancing, parades, food, and lots of fun.
During the festival, the streets of Avilés are adorned with colorful decorations, and there are concerts, performances, and other cultural events throughout the city. One of the highlights of the festival is the Grand Parade, which takes place on the penultimate day of the festival.
The Grand Parade is a magnificent spectacle, with floats, music, dancers, and a wonderful atmosphere. The streets are filled with people, all dressed up in the traditional costumes of Asturias, and there are lots of food stands offering local specialties such as cider, cheese, and chorizo.
In addition to the Grand Parade, there are many other events and activities during the Fiesta de San Agustín. These include exhibitions, fireworks displays, street performances, and much more. It’s an incredible experience, and it’s definitely something that everyone should see if they have the opportunity to visit Asturias in August.
Fiesta de la Sidra Natural
Welcome to another edition of my blog, where I talk about the best festivals around the world, and in this article, we’re going to be diving deep into the mesmerizing festivals of Asturias.
Asturias is a beautiful region located in the northern part of Spain that is known for its lush greenery, charming coastal towns, and splendid mountains that are a sight to behold. But that’s not all that Asturias is famous for; it’s also known for its one-of-a-kind festivals that attract visitors from all over the world. One such festival that deserves a mention is “Fiesta de la Sidra Natural.”
The “Fiesta de la Sidra Natural” or the Natural Cider Festival is a popular event that takes place on the fourth weekend of July and celebrates Asturias’ most famous drink, cider. The festival takes place in the city of Nava and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
The festival is a celebration of the Asturian culture and heritage and is a perfect opportunity to taste some of the best cider that this region has to offer. Visitors can enjoy tasting different varieties of cider from some of the best cider producers in Asturias. Each of these producers has their unique way of making cider, so visitors get to taste a wide range of flavors.
The celebration doesn’t stop there. The festival also includes live traditional music performances, Asturian dances, and sports events such as traditional games like “bolos Asturianos.” Visitors can also indulge in some of the traditional Asturian food like “Fabada Asturiana,” a bean stew, and “Cachopo,” a beef-filled schnitzel that’s extremely popular in this region.
The highlight of the festival is the “espicha,” a traditional Asturian cider pouring ceremony. During this ceremony, locals pour cider from huge barrels into small glasses, and visitors can enjoy this cider along with some delicious tapas.
In conclusion, “Fiesta de la Sidra Natural” is a festival that cannot be missed. It is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the Asturian culture, taste some of the best cider, and enjoy traditional music and dance performances. So, if you’re planning to visit Asturias, make sure to plan your visit during the last weekend of July and attend this one-of-a-kind festival.
Fiesta del Cordero
Asturias is a beautiful region located in the north of Spain. This region has a rich cultural heritage and offers a wide range of festivals throughout the year. Among these festivals is the Fiesta del Cordero, which is one of the most famous festivals in Asturias.
The Fiesta del Cordero or the Festival of the Lamb is celebrated in the town of Pola de Siero, which is located in the heart of Asturias. This festival is held every year on the first Sunday of September and is a celebration of the local sheep farming industry.
The festival begins early in the morning with the local shepherds bringing their flocks of sheep to the town square. The sheep are then blessed by the local priest before being auctioned off to the highest bidder. The locals compete fiercely to get their hands on the best sheep, which will then be prepared and cooked for the festival’s main event, the lamb barbecue.
The lamb barbecue is the highlight of the Fiesta del Cordero. The local chefs use traditional cooking methods to prepare the lamb, which is then served with Asturian cider and bread. This meal is not to be missed, and it is said that the lamb served during the Fiesta del Cordero is some of the best in the region.
The festival is not just about the food, however. There are also a variety of cultural events, such as local music concerts and traditional dances. Visitors can also witness the local sheepdog trials, where the shepherds demonstrate their skills working with their dogs.
The Fiesta del Cordero is an excellent opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Asturias. Visitors can mingle with the locals, taste traditional foods, and immerse themselves in the region’s unique way of life. If you are in Asturias in September, this festival is not to be missed.
La Noche de San Juan
La Noche de San Juan (Saint John’s Eve) is one of the most anticipated events in Asturias, Spain. It takes place on the night of June 23rd and lasts until the early hours of June 24th. This festival celebrates the summer solstice and is deeply rooted in pagan traditions.
During the festival, bonfires are lit throughout the region, and people gather around them to sing, dance, and enjoy the festivities. Some locals take to the beaches to jump over the fires, a tradition thought to bring good luck in the months ahead. Many also take dips in the sea, as it is believed to have healing properties on this particular night.
The celebration of La Noche de San Juan is not complete without fireworks. The night sky comes alive with colorful displays, and locals and tourists alike watch in awe. The festival also features musical performances, traditional food and drink, and vibrant street parties.
If you are planning on attending this festival, it is important to come prepared. The night can be chilly, so dress in layers. Comfortable shoes are also a must because there will be a lot of walking and dancing.
Be ready to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Asturias. This festival is a chance to experience the region’s rich history and heritage. If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, La Noche de San Juan is not to be missed.
La Descarga
One of the most famous festivals in Asturias is La Descarga, which takes place in Pola de Siero during the last weekend of July. This festival is a celebration of the area’s mining heritage and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
The festival is named after the traditional “descarga” or discharge of miners’ explosives, which was used to signal the end of a day’s work in the mines. Today, the festival involves a huge fireworks display that lights up the sky over Pola de Siero for hours.
In addition to the fireworks, La Descarga also features a range of other activities and events. There are parades, music performances, traditional dances, and plenty of food and drink to go around. Visitors can sample local delicacies like fabada asturiana (a hearty bean stew), cider, and churros.
One of the highlights of La Descarga is the competition between the different “peñas,” or groups, who take part in the festival. These peñas are made up of locals who dress up in traditional miners’ outfits and compete to see who can create the loudest, most impressive fireworks displays.
Overall, La Descarga is a must-see event for anyone visiting Asturias in the summer. The festival is a true celebration of the area’s history and culture, and offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of Asturias’ miners.
Fiesta del Antroxu
If you want to experience a carnival-like celebration in Asturias, Spain, then be sure to attend the Fiesta del Antroxu. This famous festival, also known as the Carnival of Asturias or the Winter Carnival, takes place in late February or early March, depending on the date of Ash Wednesday.
During the festival, locals dress up in colorful costumes, wear masks, and take to the streets to participate in parades and dance to live music. Traditional Asturian foods, such as frixuelos (thin pancakes) and casadielles (pastries filled with sweet walnut cream), are also consumed during the celebration.
The Fiesta del Antroxu has its roots in pre-Christian celebrations, but it was later adapted by the Catholic Church into a pre-Lenten festival. This is why the celebration takes place in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of Lent.
If you plan on attending the Fiesta del Antroxu, be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parades. You can also join locals in participating in traditional games, such as playing tug-of-war or trying to break open a piñata. The festival is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Asturian culture, meet new people, and have a lot of fun.
Overall, the Fiesta del Antroxu is a must-see festival if you are visiting Asturias in late February or early March. Its vibrant atmosphere, colorful costumes, and traditional foods are sure to provide a memorable experience.
Conclusion
Asturias, Spain is a region renowned for its rich culture and traditional festivals. From the colorful and music-filled Carnaval de Avilés to the canoeing competition of Descenso Internacional del Sella, every festival in Asturias is unique in its own way. The Fiesta de San Agustín, with its vibrant parade, and the festivities celebrating the region’s most famous drink, the Fiesta de la Sidra Natural, are also must-see events. The Festival of the Lamb, Fiesta del Cordero, and the summer solstice celebration, La Noche de San Juan, are equally famous for their rich cultural heritage and unique offerings. Last but not least, the fireworks display at La Descarga and the vibrant Fiesta del Antroxu are two festivals that offer equal amounts of fun and tradition. These festivals are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Asturias and provide an unforgettable experience to tourists and locals alike.
