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Oviedo, the charming capital of Asturias in northern Spain, is a city rich in culture and tradition. Throughout the year, Oviedo hosts a variety of festivals that celebrate its history, art, and local customs. From religious processions to lively street parties, these festivals offer visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Asturian culture. Here are some of the most important cultural festivals in Oviedo that you can’t miss this year.
La Balesquida, also known as Martes de Campo, is one of the oldest and most traditional festivals in Oviedo. Held on the first Tuesday after Pentecost, this festival has its roots in the Middle Ages and is a celebration of Oviedo’s local culture and heritage. The festival is named after Doña Velasquita, a noblewoman who left part of her wealth to the city’s guilds, and it is marked by a lively procession through the streets of Oviedo.
The highlight of the festival is the traditional merienda en el campo (picnic in the field), where locals gather in Parque de Invierno to enjoy local delicacies such as bollu preñao (bread filled with chorizo) and sidra (Asturian cider). The festive atmosphere, complete with music, dancing, and traditional costumes, makes this a must-see event for anyone visiting Oviedo in the spring.
The Fiestas de San Mateo are Oviedo’s biggest and most popular festival, taking place in mid-September. This week-long celebration is held in honor of Saint Matthew, and it brings the entire city to life with concerts, parades, and street performances. The festival’s origins date back to medieval times, when pilgrims would come to Oviedo as part of their journey along the Camino de Santiago.
One of the main attractions of the Fiestas de San Mateo is the fireworks display that lights up the sky over Oviedo on the final night of the festival. In addition to the fireworks, visitors can enjoy free concerts in the city’s main squares, food stalls offering local specialties, and a lively carnival atmosphere that lasts well into the night.
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Held in May, La Ascensión is an important agricultural fair that celebrates Oviedo’s rural traditions and its connection to the surrounding countryside. During the festival, Plaza de la Catedral is transformed into a bustling marketplace, where local farmers and artisans sell fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Asturian products.
In addition to the market, the festival includes livestock exhibitions, folkloric dancing, and demonstrations of traditional Asturian music. Visitors can also sample some of Asturias’ most famous dishes, such as fabada (a rich bean stew), queso de Cabrales (blue cheese), and, of course, the region’s iconic sidra. La Ascensión is a great way to experience the rural side of Asturian culture without leaving the city.
Antroxu, Oviedo’s version of Carnival, is a vibrant and colorful celebration that takes place in the days leading up to Lent. The festival is known for its lively parades, elaborate costumes, and playful atmosphere. One of the highlights of Antroxu is the Grand Parade, where locals and visitors alike dress up in imaginative costumes and take to the streets to dance, sing, and celebrate.
The festivities also include music performances, comedy shows, and plenty of opportunities to sample traditional Asturian dishes, such as frixuelos (Asturian pancakes) and casadielles (pastry filled with walnuts and sugar). Antroxu is a family-friendly event, with special activities for children, including costume contests and street games.
Celebrated on September 8th, the Día de Asturias is a regional holiday that honors the Virgin of Covadonga, the patron saint of Asturias. While the main festivities take place at the Basilica of Covadonga, Oviedo also celebrates with a series of religious processions, concerts, and cultural events.
The highlight of the Día de Asturias in Oviedo is the solemn mass held at the Cathedral of San Salvador, followed by a procession through the streets of the city. In the evening, the city hosts a range of cultural events, including traditional music performances, dance shows, and fireworks. It’s a day of pride and celebration for the people of Asturias, and visitors are welcomed to join in the festivities.
Oviedo’s cultural festivals offer a unique insight into the traditions and heritage of Asturias. From lively street parties to solemn religious processions, these festivals showcase the city’s vibrant spirit and deep-rooted customs. Whether you’re visiting in the spring for La Balesquida or in the fall for San Mateo, Oviedo’s festivals are an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
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