Captain's Day and St. John's Day (EN)
In Frías, every June, history comes alive with excitement at the Festival of the Captain and Saint John, a unique celebration where tradition, history and entertainment combine to create the perfect family experience.
Designated a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest, this celebration commemorates the resistance of the people of Frías against feudal authority in the 15th century.
The origins of this festival date back to 1450, when the inhabitants of Frías rose up against the Duke of Frías in response to the loss of privileges and the imposition of new taxes. That resistance left a deep mark on the town’s collective memory, giving rise to a tradition that has survived to this day.
The celebration takes place over two days. On the eve of St John’s Day, the Captain is chosen, the central figure of the festival, whilst the following day the streets of the town are filled with music, dancing and colour.
Highlights:
The waving of the flag at various points around the city, the dance of the Captain and the Captainess, and the performances by the dancers, who fill the atmosphere with joy through their leaps, castanets and cheers.
The music of the dulzaina players and drummers accompanies the entire day, creating a festive atmosphere that blends popular tradition with collective excitement.
One of the most striking elements is the figure of the Captain, who embodies the spirit of the people’s resistance. His current attire combines historical elements from different eras, featuring white trousers, a blue jacket, a bicorn hat and a sabre, carrying the flag as a symbol of identity.
You can experience this at:
Today, this festival not only commemorates a historical event, but has become a gathering where locals and visitors share tradition, culture and celebration in a unique setting.
A festival where history becomes emotion and the past lives on in every gesture.
The Festival of the Captain and San Juan is the best way to understand the character of Frías: proud, historic and deeply alive.