Festivities of San Mateo in Logroño
Also known as the Fiesta de la Vendimia Riojana, the Fiestas de San Mateo in Logroño take place over seven days with celebrations for all ages with lots of joy, tastings, exciting events and lots of fun.
Cover image courtesy of larioja.com
What do the San Mateo Fiestas consist of?
This festival begins on the Saturday before the 21st of September, and is made up of a series of activities that have become a tradition during these festive days.
Official start of the festivities
The mayor is in charge of the opening speech in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. The exciting firing of the rocket is the official signal for the start of the San Mateo fiestas in Logroño.
21st September
This is an emblematic day during the festivities, as the traditional Pisado de la Uva (treading of the grapes) takes place, with the first grapes of the season. The offering of the first grape juice to the Virgen de la Valvanera also takes place.
Parade of floats
This is one of the most eagerly awaited events. It takes place at nightfall and at the end of the weekend, also featuring music bands, folk groups, among others.
Tastings
During this week the peñas offer different dishes of Riojan gastronomy, so there is no shortage of potatoes with chorizo, choricillo, chuletillas al sarmiento and a good Riojan wine.
International Fireworks Competition
This takes place over several nights in the Parque de la Ribera. During this event, several pyrotechnic companies will compete, and the winner will be invited to launch the fireworks at the San Bernabé Festival.
Burning of the vat
It begins with the parade of the peñas through the city centre, and when they arrive at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the burning of the vat begins. This act indicates that the fiestas have come to an end, until next year.
Origin of the San Mateo festivities in Logroño
Its origin dates back to the 12th century, at the time when the city of Logroño obtained the status of Villa, therefore, it had the right to an annual celebration.
This event eventually became a relevant venue for trade, and as time went by, it became more and more important. Since 1956, they have also been known as the Fiestas de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest Festival), due to the link with farming.
What else is there to see or do in Logroño?
Logroño is charming, you can visit the whole city on foot and contemplate its marvellous architecture, have a warm contact with its people, taste a delicious pincho or a glass of its best wine.
Stroll along the main street of the city, along the walls of the Revellín and see the remains of the medieval buildings. You can also stroll around the Parliament, the Church of Santiago el Real, Santa María de Palacio and San Bartolomé.
Other places of tourist interest are the Market Square, the house of Jacinta Martínez de Sicilia and the exterior of the Museum of La Rioja.
Gastronomy in Logroño
During the San Mateo Festival, gastronomic festivals and tastings of the city's traditional dishes are held in the peñas and chamizos (huts). Remember to try the Rioja-style potatoes, vine-shoot lamb chops and Camerano cheese, among others.
A visit to La Laurel, Logroño's best-known tapas bar, is also a must. And enjoy a delicious glass of wine. For many, Logroño is the city of wine, due to the excellent quality of its grapes.
