Summer Festivals in Galicia
Summer is a season full of things to do in Galicia. Beyond music festivals, there are many summer festivals in Galicia you can't miss. Food, traditional Galician music, fireworks and ancient traditions are part of Galician summer life. A selection of our favourites — there are thousands across cities and villages.
Get to know Galicia's summer festivals
A Rapa das Bestas — first weekend of July, Sabucedo (Pontevedra)
Sabucedo, a small village in the mountains of Pontevedra, hosts the best-known of the "Rapa das Bestas" festivals held in Galician summer. Horses roaming free all year on the mountains are gathered into a fenced area called a curro, where men and women cut the wild horses' manes using only their hands and riding skills. A centuries-old tradition celebrated for over 400 years. Declared "Festival of International Interest" — thousands of visitors each year.
Virgen del Carmen Festivals — 16 July, in all Galician fishing villages
The "Virgen del Carmen" is traditionally considered the protector of fishermen and sailors. On 16 July, boats hold a colourful procession at sea carrying an image of the Virgen del Carmen. Food, music, fireworks and night-long parties are guaranteed.
Festas do Apóstolo — Santiago Festivities (25 July, Santiago de Compostela)
25 July is the date when Santiago de Compostela celebrates its biggest festival in honour of the Apostle. The end of two weeks of concerts, music and partying in the squares, especially the old town. The night of the 24th is the big night: an exceptional show of sound, lights, projections and fireworks at Plaza del Obradoiro. One of the best summer festivals in Galicia.
The Coffins Procession (29 July, Santa Marta de Ribarteme, Pontevedra)
The British newspaper The Guardian called this procession "The most unique celebration in the world". In the small village of Santa Marta de Ribarteme, on 29 July some (alive) people take part in the procession in their own coffins. These people had been previously "offered" to Santa Marta because they had a serious illness and survived, so they lie in an open coffin to express gratitude for being saved from death, usually carried by their relatives. After the visit, of course, taste some food and wine.
Viking Landing — 1st weekend of August, Catoira (Pontevedra)
Since 1960 the village of Catoira, dressed as Viking warriors, re-enacts the Viking attacks that took place 1,000 years ago. A very popular festival with fun, music and — as good Vikings would — food, wine and beer. Held next to the ruins of the Torres do Oeste, a fortress built around the 9th century to protect the village from Viking attacks. A medieval market and night-time concerts complete the celebration.
Festa do Albariño — 1st weekend of August, Cambados (Pontevedra)
Started in 1953 as a wine competition, this celebration of Albariño wine is now a big event around food and culture. Taste our most award-winning Rías Baixas wine, our seafood, and interact with many winemakers, plus a full programme of music concerts and cultural activities.
Festa da Istoria (30–31 August, Ribadavia, Ourense)
One of the oldest and most popular medieval fairs. The last weekend of August transforms the charming village of Ribadavia into a medieval town. A great market in the well-preserved old town (including one of the few examples of medieval Jewish quarters in Galicia). Dressing in medieval clothing is recommended, and you even change your money for medieval coins to buy at the market.
Just a small selection — summer festivals can be found in almost every corner. A good chance to know our history, culture and traditions and enjoy the legendary local hospitality.
