Feast of San Mateo: Tradition and joy in Spain

September 21 is a highly anticipated date in various locations in Spain , as the Fiesta de San Mateo is celebrated. This festivity, which combines religious traditions and festive events, takes place in different regions of the country and is an occasion to honor the patron saint and enjoy various cultural and leisure activities.

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Saint Matthew: The Patron Saint

Saint Matthew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, is recognized in the Christian tradition as the author of the Gospel that bears his name. In Spain , he is revered as a patron in various cities and towns, where his festivity is celebrated with great fervor and devotion.

Celebrations in Logroño, La Rioja

One of the most prominent festivities in Spain in honor of San Mateo takes place in the city of Logroño, capital of the La Rioja region. Here, the Fiesta de San Mateo is considered one of the most important and expected celebrations of the year.

For several days, the city is transformed into a stage for events and activities for all ages. The festivity begins with the traditional ceremony of the " Pisada de la Uva ", where the first extraction of the must is carried out, beginning the harvest season in La Rioja . This symbolic act marks the beginning of the festivities and takes place in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, with the participation of local authorities and visitors. Throughout the week, Logroño is filled with color and joy with parades, concerts, festivals, fairs, gastronomic contests and traditional activities. One of the most popular events is the parade of floats, in which different clubs and folk groups that represent historical and cultural scenes of the region participate. In addition, during the Fiesta de San Mateo in Logroño , bullfighting is held, in which the brave runners challenge the bulls through the streets of the city. These exciting races are followed by a multitude of spectators who gather to experience the adrenaline rush of this traditional event.

Other Celebrations in Spain

The Fiesta de San Mateo is also celebrated in other towns in Spain , such as Oviedo (Asturias) and Cuenca (Castilla-La Mancha). In Oviedo, the festivity coincides with the Asturias Day celebrations, where cultural events, concerts, contests and exhibitions are organized. The traditional cattle fair, known as " Los Huevos Pintos ", is another of the attractions of this festivity. In Cuenca, the Fiesta de San Mateo is celebrated with a more religious focus. Solemn processions take place and homage is paid to the Virgen de las Angustias , patron saint of the city. In addition, cultural activities, concerts and recreational activities are carried out for the enjoyment of the inhabitants and visitors.

Cultural and tourist importance

The Fiesta de San Mateo has become a platform for the promotion and preservation of the cultural heritage of the regions where it is celebrated. During this festivity, the traditions, music, dance and gastronomy of each locality are highlighted, allowing visitors and local inhabitants to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the region.

Religious processions, float parades, traditional dances, and folklore displays are living expressions of cultural heritage that are passed down from generation to generation. These cultural manifestations become a tangible testimony of the history, beliefs and customs rooted in the community, and contribute to its preservation and dissemination.

Boost to Tourism

This festival has established itself as an important tourist attraction in the regions where it is celebrated. Visitors come to these festivities looking for an authentic and unique experience that allows them to immerse themselves in the local culture and live moments of celebration and joy.

The promotion of the Fiesta de San Mateo at a national and international level attracts tourists interested in discovering the cultural diversity of Spain. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in the festivities, get to know the traditional gastronomy, admire the artistic manifestations and enjoy the hospitality of the local communities. The tourism generated by the Fiesta de San Mateo has a significant economic impact on the regions. Hotels, restaurants, shops and tourist services experience an increase in demand during the festivity, which in turn contributes to local economic development and the promotion of employment.

Another important point is that it plays a fundamental role in preserving local traditions and strengthening the cultural identity of the regions. Through the festivities, ancestral knowledge and practices are transmitted to the new generations, guaranteeing the continuity of traditions and avoiding their oblivion.

Cultural associations and folk groups play a vital role in organizing and participating in the Fiesta de San Mateo. These entities work hard to keep customs, regional costumes, music and dances alive, ensuring that they are passed down from generation to generation. In addition, the Fiesta de San Mateo stimulates the active participation of the local inhabitants in the organization and development of the festivities. Pride in belonging to the community is fostered and bonds of unity and collaboration between neighbors are strengthened.