San Mateo Festival

The San Mateo Festival celebrated in Logroño, La Rioja, Spain, is a significant event that marks the beginning of the grape harvest and is one of the region’s most important cultural and tourism attractions.

This festival has deep roots in the history and tradition of La Rioja, a region famed for its wine production.

The San Mateo Festival typically occurs in September, coinciding with Saint Matthew’s feast day on September 21st.

During the San Mateo festival, the city of Logroño becomes a vibrant hub of activity, offering a wide array of events that celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage and wine-making traditions.

Highlights of the San Mateo Festival

1. The Grape Harvest Ceremony: This is a central festival event, symbolizing the start of the grape harvest. It involves a ceremonial offering of the first grapes to the Virgin of Valvanera, the patron saint of La Rioja, thanking her for the harvest.
2. Wine Tasting: Given La Rioja’s reputation for producing some of Spain’s finest wines, wine tasting is a pivotal part of the celebrations. Numerous bodegas (wine cellars) and stands throughout the city allow visitors to sample various local wines.
3. Parades and Processions: The streets of Logroño come alive with colourful parades, traditional dances, and processions, including the famous “Giants and Bigheads” (Gigantes y Cabezudos), prominent paper-mâché figures that dance through the streets.
4. Cultural Events: The festival also features a rich program of cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions, and theatrical performances, showcasing local talents and Spanish traditions.
5. Bullfighting: As with many Spanish festivals, bullfighting is part of the festivities, with events held at the local bullring.
6. Fireworks: Spectacular fireworks displays light up the night sky, adding to the festive atmosphere.
7. Traditional Foods: The festival is also an opportunity to savour La Rioja’s culinary delights, including traditional dishes and tapas, often enjoyed in the lively atmosphere of the city’s bars and restaurants.

The San Mateo Festival is not just a celebration of the grape harvest but also a testament to the community spirit, traditions, and cultural identity of the people of La Rioja. It attracts visitors from all over Spain and beyond, making it a key event for anyone interested in experiencing Spanish culture and heritage.

Travelling to Logroño, especially during the San Mateo Festival, is an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of La Rioja, Spain. Here’s a guide on how to get there and suggestions for places to stay:

How to Get to the San Mateo Festival?

By Air: The closest international airport to Logroño is Bilbao Airport (BIO), located about 150 km away. From Bilbao, you can rent a car or take a bus or train to Logroño. Another option is the Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ), which is also approximately 150 km from Logroño and offers similar travel options to reach the city.

By Train: Logroño has a train station that connects it to major Spanish cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Bilbao. Spanish national rail services, Renfe, operates these routes, offering a comfortable and efficient way to travel.

By Bus: Several bus companies operate services to Logroño from different parts of Spain. Buses can be cost-effective, with direct routes from cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, and Zaragoza.

By Car: If you prefer to drive, Logroño is well-connected by road. It’s about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Madrid and around 4 hours from Barcelona. The streets and highways in Spain are of high quality, making for a pleasant driving experience.

Where to Stay

Logroño offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and charming bed & breakfasts. Here are some recommendations:

• Luxury: Consider staying at a high-end hotel or a boutique hotel in the city centre. You’ll be close to the festival activities and the historic parts of the city.
• Mid-Range: Many mid-range hotels and guesthouses offer comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. Look for places near the city centre or along the Ebro River for beautiful views.
• Budget: For those on a tight budget, Logroño has hostels and budget hotels. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the festival, as these options fill quickly.
• Rural Accommodations: If you’re interested in exploring the wine country more intimately, consider staying in one of the surrounding villages in La Rioja. Many wineries offer accommodations or can recommend nearby rural hotels and guesthouses.
• Airbnb and Vacation Rentals: For a more personalized stay, consider Airbnb or other vacation rental platforms. These platforms often offer unique accommodations in the city and the countryside.

Tips for Visiting During San Mateo Festival

• Book Early: Accommodations can fill up quickly during the festival, so it’s wise to book your stay well in advance.
• Plan Your Travel: If using public transportation, check schedules and book tickets beforehand, as services might be busier than usual.
• Explore Beyond the Festival: While the San Mateo Festival is a highlight, La Rioja has much to offer, including winery tours, historic sites, and natural beauty. Allocate time to explore beyond Logroño.