Tudela, at the heart of La Ribera de Navarra, is a city renowned for its passion and joy in every celebration. While the Santa Ana Festivities are the main event, Tudela comes alive throughout the year with celebrations that blend tradition, culture, and fun. From Holy Week to the Vegetable Festival, and more intimate events in neighbourhoods like Lourdes, each month brings an opportunity for locals and visitors to enjoy the city. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of Tudela’s festivals and the unique spirit of each one.
Programme of the Santa Ana Festivities in Tudela
The Santa Ana Festivities are the heart of Tudela’s festive life, attracting thousands of visitors each year. From 24th to 30th July, the city is transformed with parades, bull runs, and activities that fill its streets with colour and joy.
- The Chupinazo: The launch of the rocket, known as the Chupinazo, officially inaugurates the festivities. From Plaza de los Fueros, a distinguished person or group launches the rocket that marks the beginning of a week of celebrations. This iconic moment is followed by parades of peñas, giant figures, and musical bands.
- Bull Runs and Parades: Every morning at 8:00 am, the traditional bull runs take place through several streets of the town. Tudela’s peñas liven up the day with their street parades, filling every corner of the city with music.
The current route is: corrales – Calle Frauca – Cuesta de la Estación – Camino Caritat – Baquero Jacoste – Avda. Zaragoza – Plaza de toros.
- Traditional Dances such as the Era Dance, the Tudela Polka, and the famous Revoltosa, along with Night-time Events: These traditional dances are among the most cherished events of the festivities. They take place in Plaza de los Fueros, where locals and visitors dance around the central bandstand to the rhythm set by the Municipal Band.
- Procession and Offering to Santa Ana: 26th July is dedicated to Santa Ana, the city’s patron saint. The procession and floral offering in the cathedral represent the devout side of the festivities, bringing together numerous Tudela residents in an emotional celebration.
Holy Week in Tudela: Faith and Passion
Tudela’s Holy Week is known for its solemnity and deep religious significance, making it a key event in the festival calendar of Tudela, Navarra.
- Procession of the Holy Burial: Held on Good Friday, this is one of the most significant processions. The religious floats parade through Tudela’s streets, followed by members of the brotherhoods and residents in an atmosphere of reverence and devotion.
- Participation of the Brotherhoods: The brotherhoods, some with centuries of history, play a central role in organising Holy Week. Each brotherhood is responsible for a float, keeping the city’s religious traditions alive.
- Día del Ángel and El Volatín: Iconic traditions of Tudela, these centuries-old ceremonies are an essential part of Holy Week and have been declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest. El Volatín, held on Holy Saturday, is a symbolic representation of Judas Iscariot using a wooden puppet in Plaza de los Fueros. Día del Ángel, on Easter Sunday, features the moving scene of a child dressed as an angel removing the Virgin’s veil in a gesture of joy for Christ’s resurrection.
Tudela Carnival: Colour and Fun
Carnival is another of the standout festivities in Tudela’s calendar. Colourful parades and activities fill the streets with a lively and joyful atmosphere.
- Parade of Troupes and Costumes: The city bursts into colour with the parade of troupes and costumes in Plaza de los Fueros. This event is especially popular among children and young people, who participate with their most creative outfits.
- The Burial of the Sardine: This unique ceremony marks the end of Carnival and is a fun and symbolic moment where the sardine is “buried” in a tradition full of humour.
The Vegetable Festival: A Gastronomic Tribute
Tudela’s Vegetable Festival celebrates the region’s agricultural richness, attracting visitors who appreciate fine cuisine. During this event, Tudela and La Ribera’s vegetables, such as asparagus, artichokes, and lettuce hearts, take centre stage.
- Gastronomic Activities and Tastings: Throughout the festival, numerous restaurants, local shops, and markets offer tastings and showcases of the area’s fresh produce.
- Vegetable Market and Exhibitions: Tudela and La Ribera’s vegetables are displayed at open-air fairs, where visitors can enjoy these products and participate in tastings and culinary exhibitions.
Christmas and Epiphany in Tudela
The Christmas festivities in Tudela include activities for the whole family and a festive atmosphere that envelops the city with lights and seasonal decorations.
- Three Kings Parade: On 5th January, the traditional parade winds through Tudela’s streets, spreading sweets and joy among children.
- Living Nativity Scene and Christmas Concerts: During this period, Tudela hosts cultural events such as the living nativity scene and Christmas music concerts in churches and squares.
Lourdes Neighbourhood Festivities: The Celebration of St. John in Tudela
The Lourdes Neighbourhood Festivities, in honour of St. John the Baptist, are a much-anticipated event in Tudela, where the community spirit is deeply felt. Typically held in June, these celebrations include traditional events such as the Paloteado de San Juan Bautista in Parque Perrinche, a folk dance notable for its verses and symbolism.
Other events include the Lantern Parade and the St. John’s Bonfire, marking the summer solstice, as well as activities like the children’s bull run, the giant figures parade by the Perrinche Troupe, and evening concerts in Plaza Padre Lasa. These festivities reflect local authenticity and pride, offering residents and visitors an intimate and welcoming celebration in Tudela.
Other Local Festivals and Celebrations
In addition to these festivities, Tudela celebrates pilgrimages, the feasts of St. John and St. Peter, and other smaller celebrations in neighbourhoods and nearby chapels.