Monday, September 16, 2024 Nestled in the heart of La Rioja , Spain’s world-renowned wine region, the San Mateo Festival is a week-long celebration unlike any other. From September 20 to 26, 2024 , the vibrant city of Logroño will transform into a living, breathing testament to Spanish tradition, culture, and the joy of community. Often referred to as the Rioja Wine Harvest Festival , this annual event marks the beginning of the grape harvest and honors Saint Matthew , the city’s patron saint.
For travelers seeking a truly authentic Spanish experience, the San Mateo Festival offers an unparalleled journey through history, gastronomy, and celebration. 1. The Procesión de San Mateo: A Time-Honored Tradition At the heart of this festival is the Procesión de San Mateo , a solemn yet beautiful procession that pays homage to Saint Matthew .
Taking place on September 21 , this religious event is one of the most meaningful aspects of the celebration, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s deep-rooted traditions. Expect stunning costumes, centuries-old rituals, and a captivating atmosphere that fills the streets of Logroño. 2.
Grape Crushing Ceremony: A Celebration of the Harvest One of the most iconic events of the San Mateo Festival is the Crushing of the Grapes . Held in the city’s central square, this traditional ceremony symbolizes the beginning of the grape harvest. Local dignitaries and even members of the public are invited to crush grapes barefoot, producing the first must of the season.
The energy in the air is electric as the city comes together to celebrate the fruits of their labor — and their famous Rioja wine . 3. Parades and Colorful Celebrations Throughout the week, the streets of Logroño come alive with vibrant parades that showcase the city’s history and culture.
Floats, costumes, and traditional music fill the city with an infectious energy. Whether you’re watching the grand spectacle of the daytime processions or enjoying the intimate charm of nighttime street performances, the parades offer something for every visitor to enjoy. 4.
Bullfighting and Bull Runs: A Nod to Tradition For those interested in Spain’s more traditional sports, bullfighting plays a central role in the San Mateo festivities. The city’s bullring becomes a hub of activity, where locals and visitors alike gather to witness this historic Spanish practice. Morning bull runs — where locals run alongside bulls through the streets — add to the thrill of the celebration, providing a truly authentic cultural experience.
5. Nightly Fireworks: A Dazzling Display Each night, the skies over Logroño are illuminated by spectacular fireworks displays . The grand finale, known as the Fuegos de San Mateo , is a breathtaking show that brings together locals and tourists for a dazzling conclusion to the day’s festivities.
Watching the fireworks light up the night sky while surrounded by the festive buzz of the city is an unforgettable experience. 6. Tapas and Rioja Wine: A Culinary Delight Of course, no visit to La Rioja would be complete without indulging in the region’s famous food and wine.
The San Mateo Festival is a celebration of Rioja wine , and there’s no shortage of opportunities to taste this world-class product. Wander through Calle Laurel , Logroño’s famous tapas street, and savor the flavors of local delicacies paired with the region’s finest wines. Don’t forget to try zurracapote , a traditional festival drink made with wine and fruit — often shared freely by members of the local peñas (social clubs).
7. Music, Dance, and Festive Energy The rhythm of the festival pulses through every corner of Logroño. Concerts , street performances, and impromptu parties fill the evenings with music and dance.
Whether you’re swaying to the sounds of traditional Spanish folk or dancing along to modern hits, the energy is infectious, and the city comes alive in ways that will leave you with cherished memories. In 2023, Spain’s tourism industry made a remarkable comeback, bouncing back from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The total number of international visitors, including both same-day and overnight tourists, surged past 125 million — a significant milestone that marked a full recovery for the country’s tourism sector.
The year prior, in 2022, Spain had already welcomed over 100 million international visitors, a number that hadn’t been seen since the pandemic began. In 2022, British tourists led the way, with over 15 million visitors arriving from the United Kingdom, making it Spain’s largest source of international travelers. France , Spain’s neighbor to the northeast, ranked second with more than 10 million French tourists.
Among Spain’s 17 autonomous communities, Catalonia stood out as the most popular destination, drawing nearly 15 million international visitors, solidifying its place as a top hotspot for global tourism. Finding the right place to stay during the San Mateo Festival is key to making your trip comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you prefer a luxurious hotel or a cozy boutique stay, Logroño has plenty of options.
While the San Mateo Festival is the star of the show, Logroño offers plenty of attractions to explore during your stay. From historical sites to beautiful parks, the city is full of charm. La Rioja is renowned for its cuisine, and Logroño’s dining scene shines during the festival.
From tapas bars to fine dining, there’s no shortage of incredible food to try. Navigating Logroño during the San Mateo Festival is easy, with many options available to get you from event to event. To make the most of your experience at the San Mateo Festival , keep these handy tips in mind.
They’ll help you navigate the events, understand local customs, and ensure you don’t miss a thing. The San Mateo Festival 2024 in Logroño is a celebration of the senses — from the taste of Rioja wine to the vibrant sights and sounds of parades, music, and fireworks. For travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience in Spain, this festival offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of La Rioja’s harvest season.
The warmth of the local community, the richness of the region’s traditions, and the joy of the festivities make San Mateo an unforgettable destination..
