Holy Christ of Remedies Festival in San Sebastián de los Reyes
San Sebastián de los Reyes dedicates its August patronal festival to the Santísimo Cristo de los Remedios. Religious devotion shares the spotlight with the renowned bull runs, the local peñas, music, fairground and a large family programme across the old town.
Usual date
The festival takes place during the last week of August. The main day devoted to the Cristo is 28 August, with the offering, high Mass and procession; exact dates for the opening proclamation, bull runs and closing event vary each year.
Where it is held
The festival area extends across Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza de la Iglesia, Calles Real, Postas, Estafeta and Real Vieja, the bullring, Parque de la Marina, the fairground and other municipal venues. The parish church of San Sebastián Mártir is the focus for worship.
Origins and history
Municipal records trace the celebration's roots to 1645, when local people sought the protection of the Cristo de los Remedios from epidemics. The Hermandad preserves that devotion and organises the worship that gives the festival its patronal meaning.
Over time, the bull runs became another defining feature. Their traditional course follows Calles Leopoldo Gimeno, Real Vieja, Postas, Real and Estafeta to the bullring.
Events and traditions
- Opening proclamation and pyrotechnic burst in Plaza de la Constitución.
- Morning bull runs, one night run, open bullring sessions and the bullfighting fair.
- Triduum, floral offering, high Mass, banner auction and solemn procession on 28 August.
- Street parades, brass bands, peña activities, children's bull runs and Baile de la Amapola.
- Concerts, orchestras, family shows and a fairground with a daily quiet hour.
- Baile de las Higueras, with figs shared among participants, shortly before the festival closes.
Taking part and safety
The Town Council, Hermandad, peñas, associations, municipal Band and Choir, security and health services and volunteers sustain a programme for many audiences. The bull runs have specific rules: participants must be physically capable, at least 16 years old and wear suitable clothing and footwear; spectators must respect barriers and organisers' instructions.
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.