Festival of the Apostle Santiago: A must-see in summer in Galicia.
Table of Contents
The Festival of the Apostle Santiago
The festival of the Apostle Santiago, patron saint of Santiago de Compostela, Galicia and all of Spain, is celebrated in the middle of summer, in the second half of July. For 15 days the city comes alive to celebrate the patron saint.
From the 15th, the city is full of activities. Traditional music concerts, dance, and various exhibitions and cultural activities of all kinds serve as a prelude to the main event.
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The Apostle's Fireworks
On the 24th at noon the Cathedral bells ring, announcing that night’s spectacle: The Cathedral is bathed in lights and colour, and images of the history of Compostela are projected onto its façade, culminating in the lighting of a fireworks display in the shape of the façade of the Obradoiro, accompanied by fireworks launched from various points around the city.
The Solemn Mass and National Offering
Santiago being the patron saint of Galicia and Spain, it is traditional for the Royal Family or a delegate of the Royal House to visit us, as well as the President of the Government or other officials. On the 25th, the Solemn Mass is celebrated, in which the Botafumeiro is used, the large censer that swings along the transept of the Cathedral. After this mass, the King or delegate leaves a monetary offering to the Patron Apostle of Santiago.
Procession of the Apostle Santiago
On Saint James’ day, faith floods the streets. A procession takes place through the streets of the city with the image of the Apostle Santiago. You don’t have to be a religious person to enjoy an event like this, with so many years of cultural and historical significance.
For the little ones
For the little ones in the house, dozens of stalls are set up in the Alameda de Santiago park. Typical fair games such as bumper cars or trampolines. Food and drink stalls, candied fruit… And music to liven up the atmosphere. But the icing on the cake is the Giant Wheel, the legendary Ferris wheel that crowns the Alameda, in the Carballeira de Santa Susana, during its most important festivals. This Ferris wheel, which has been operating for years, offers the best views of Santiago from its highest point. It is obligatory to ride it at least once to enjoy a unique panoramic view of the city.
Read also: 5 things to do in Santiago
The Xacobeo or Jacobeo, the Holy Year of Compostela
When July 25th falls on a Sunday, that year is known as the Holy Year of Santiago de Compostela, Xacobeo in Galician or Jacobeo in Spanish. It is under this condition that the Holy Door of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is opened. It is during these days that the city receives an endless number of illustrious visitors and people from all over the world since it is the city’s big day and the day of the patron saint of Spain. It is during these jubilee years when the religious significance of Santiago increases and the Church emphasizes the need for pilgrimage as a way of self-discovery and in order to improve life from a Christian perspective.
SUMMARY
The festivities of the Apostle Santiago, celebrated every year in the city of Santiago de Compostela, are one of the most significant events in Galicia and throughout Spain and combine religious, cultural and social elements that attract thousands of visitors both nationally and internationally.
In addition to the religious events, the festivals are also known for their fun and festive component. On the night of July 24, the “Fuego del Apóstol” (Fire of the Apostle) is celebrated, an impressive fireworks display that lights up the sky of Santiago and takes place in the Plaza del Obradoiro, in front of the majestic cathedral. This event attracts crowds who gather to enjoy a festive and vibrant atmosphere.
The celebrations of Santiago the Apostle are therefore a celebration of faith, tradition and culture. They reflect the rich history of Santiago de Compostela as a pilgrimage destination and symbolise the unity of the Spanish people around their roots and beliefs. With their mix of spirituality, history and fun, these festivities are an unmissable event that continues to keep alive the essence of one of the most emblematic cities in Spain.
MORE INFORMATION OF INTEREST
Santiago is also the capital of Galicia, a fairly central city in that Spanish region. From there you can easily visit a large part of the community and also the neighbouring regions, as well as Portugal. For this reason, it is possible to travel to different places from there. Today, agencies such as Galicia Travels have an endless number of excursions and personalized trips that allow visitors to Santiago to visit many destinations close to the city, such as Finisterre or Muxía. All for an affordable price and without having to worry about anything. Without a doubt, an opportunity not to be missed.