Patron Saint Festivals of Saint Simon and Saint Jude
27 Oct 2026 · 11:02
Evento: 28 Oct 2026
On October 28, 2026, Zahara de la Sierra will celebrate one of its most significant festivities, deeply rooted in the municipality's history: the Day of the Patron Saints San Simón and San Judas. It is a day that combines tradition, heritage, culture, and community, commemorating the final conquest of the town by Christian troops in 1483.
This celebration represents an important link to the past of Zahara de la Sierra and keeps alive a tradition that is part of the historical and cultural identity of its inhabitants. One of the most iconic moments will be the processional transfer of the Pendón de la Villa, a symbol of that historical event which, according to tradition, flew atop the Torre del Homenaje after the conquest.
The festivity is part of a cultural week dedicated to highlighting local history, customs, and heritage, featuring activities such as painting, poetry, and photography contests, as well as lectures and exhibitions that bring residents and visitors closer to the municipality's traditions.
The program for the main day will include religious, institutional, and cultural events, most notably the solemn mass in honor of the patron saints, the opening speech of the festivities, the presentation of the Premios Villa de Zahara, and various gastronomic and musical activities.
One of the most anticipated moments will be the popular lunch in the Plaza del Rey, a space for gathering and community that will bring together residents and visitors to share in this festive day.
Program of activities | Wednesday, October 28, 2026
11:00 h | Processional transfer and solemn mass
Processional transfer of the Pendón de la Villa and celebration of the solemn mass at the parish church of Santa María de la Mesa, in honor of San Simón and San Judas.
12:00 h | Opening speech of the festivities
Opening speech by Francisco Javier Maldonado Rico, which will lead into the day's institutional events.
12:30 h | Presentation of the Premios Villa de Zahara
A ceremony to recognize individuals, entities, and institutions that have stood out for their trajectory, commitment, and contribution to society.
Premio Especial Villa de Zahara: Manuel Villalba Palma.
Premio Villa de Zahara al Servicio Público: Francisco Javier Maldonado Rico.
Premio Villa de Zahara a la Solidaridad: Fragancias Aura, Mundo Carretillas SL and Asociación Cultural Andaluza Zahara de la Sierra de Viladecans.
Premio Villa de Zahara a la Trayectoria Empresarial: Florencio Fuentes Artacho.
Premio Villa de Zahara a la dedicación y entrega durante el enjambre de borrascas: Aguas Sierra de Cádiz, Básica S.A.U., Consorcio de Bomberos de la provincia de Cádiz, UME, Cruz Roja and Guardia Civil.
13:30 h | Venencia de vinos
An activity dedicated to the winemaking tradition and the art of the "venencia," a practice closely linked to Andalusian culture.
14:00 h | Gastronomic contest
A contest organized by the City Council, Mayores Activ@s, the Asociación de la Toma de la Villa de Zahara, and Punto Vuela. An activity that highlights local gastronomy and traditional recipes.
14:30 h | Popular lunch
A gastronomic gathering in the Plaza del Rey, organized by the Sociedad de Caza «La Cabaña del Alto Guadalete», with bar service provided by the AMPA Fernando Hué.
15:00 h | Musical performance
The day will continue with a performance by Manuel Beltrán, «El Barri», who will provide the musical finale to the celebration.
A celebration that keeps the history of Zahara alive
The Day of the Patron Saints is much more than a religious festivity. It is an opportunity to remember one of the most relevant events in the history of Zahara de la Sierra, recognize the contribution of its residents, and strengthen the traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation.
With its historical heritage, its medieval streets, and its privileged natural surroundings, Zahara de la Sierra invites residents and visitors to participate in a day where history, culture, and tradition take center stage.