Festivals in Berja
Discover the main festivals and traditions of Berja, at the foot of the Sierra de Gádor.
Local festivals in Berja
Devotion to the Virgen de Gádor, patron of Berja, is usually celebrated through two cycles of worship and transfers between her sanctuary and La Anunciación parish church. During the Bajada, the route passes temporary altars prepared by residents; the novena, floral offering, processions and later Subida preserve the connection between the town and the mountains.
San Tesifón Humarrachos
On the eve of San Tesifón, Berja's patron, neighbourhoods light the Humarrachos, bonfires around which music, dancing, broad beans, bacon and wine are shared. The tradition recalls a vow made in 1596 asking the saint for protection from a plague that was damaging crops.
Other celebrations: San Marcos and San Antón
In late April, the San Marcos and San Antón festivities centre on Carrera de Granada and Plaza de la Constitución. The blessing and sharing of bread rings, the Estación de San Marcos, the passage of livestock before dawn and the procession preserve a celebration historically linked to farming and herding.