The Fiesta de San Mateo is an annual celebration held in Logroño, the capital of the La Rioja region in Spain, to honor Saint Matthew, the patron saint of the city. The festival, which has been celebrated for centuries, marks the beginning of the grape harvest and is closely tied to the region's winemaking tradition. It includes parades, music, traditional dances, and wine tastings, with the highlight being the "batalla del vino" (wine battle), where participants throw wine at each other in a joyful and colorful spectacle. The Fiesta de San Mateo is a lively and spirited celebration of local culture, wine, and community, drawing both locals and tourists to the heart of La Rioja.
DATES & TIMES
• Festival dates: 20–26 September 2025. Official dates · City programme note.
• Opening (Chupinazo): Sat 20 Sep, 12:00, Plaza del Ayuntamiento. Ayuntamiento listing · Access & safety info.
• Grape treading & first must offering: Sun 21 Sep, 12:00, Paseo del Espolón. Event details.
• Parade of floats: Sun 21 Sep (time per programme). Programme highlight.
• Fireworks competition: Mon 22, Tue 23 & Thu 25 Sep, Parque de la Ribera (evenings). Details.
• Closing ceremony (Quema de la Cuba): Fri 26 Sep, Plaza del Ayuntamiento (evening). City programme.
LOCATION
• Key venues: Plaza del Ayuntamiento (opening, closing), Paseo del Espolón (grape treading & offering), Parque de la Ribera (fireworks). City advisory.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Most headline acts are free (street events, ceremonies, parades). Some concerts and tastings are limited-capacity and may require prior collection or purchase via the official listings. Official updates.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Crowds & security: Expect very large crowds at the Chupinazo, Espolón (Sun 21), and the fireworks. The city deploys an enhanced security plan—arrive early and follow onsite guidance. Safety plan.
• Family-friendly: Plenty of daytime parades, tastings, and kids’ activities; check daily schedules in local listings. Family programme.
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