Virgen de la Encina and Caldereta Patronal Festivities
Hoyo de Manzanares's patronal festivities unite devotion to the Virgen de la Encina with La Caldereta, a day of communal cooking and shared celebration that has become the town's most distinctive popular tradition.
Usual date
The main programme generally occupies the first week of September. Patroness Day is 8 September, while Caldereta Day is normally held on the preceding Sunday. Sports, children's activities and preliminary festivities may begin in late August.
See the 2026 Hoyo de Manzanares programme.
Where it takes place
Plaza Mayor is the principal gathering point for the proclamation, open-air dances and Caldereta supper. Events extend to Plaza de La Caldereta, Plaza del Caño, Parque Alcántara, the municipal bullring, Las Eras sports centre, the parish church and streets around the town.
Virgen de la Encina
Virgen de la Encina is Hoyo de Manzanares's patroness. The novena, transfer of the image, solemn Mass, procession and floral offering form the religious core. On 8 September the image travels through the streets after Mass and later returns to its chapel in the old church.
Caldereta Day
La Caldereta fills an entire day: a tribute to deceased members of the association, preparation of the stew in public, a large communal supper, an open-air dance and the traditional sprinkling of wine. The council programme identifies it as a festival of regional tourist interest.
Other events and participants
- The opening proclamation and parade of clubs and associations.
- Bull runs, bull-related events and children's activities connected with cattle traditions.
- Charangas, the cucaña contest, open-air dances, cookery competitions and communal meals.
- Local clubs, Asociación La Caldereta, cultural and bullfighting associations, sports clubs, the parish and the council all contribute.
Sources
Today's international trade fair
You can also find information about international trade fairs and discover today's featured trade fair at FeriasHoy.com.