Festivals in Cuenca
Discover the main festivals, celebrations and traditions of Cuenca, municipality of Cuenca, in Castile-La Mancha.
Local holidays and Cuenca culture
Usual celebration
The San Mateo festival commemorates the conquest of Cuenca and is usually held over several days around 21 September. Plaza Mayor and the streets of the old town host tethered young bulls, pasodobles, brass bands, the opening address and festival-club gatherings.
The Town Hall organises the festival with the San Mateo clubs, municipal services and partner organisations; residents and visitors take part along the routes and at events in the historic quarter.
2026 programme
The 2026 San Julián Fair and Festival has an official programme from 20 to 30 August. Its eleven days include the opening address and City of Cuenca Awards on the 20th, the float parade and opening of the fairground on the 21st, the San Julián Mass in the Cathedral on the 23rd, concerts, children's events and open-air dances, and fireworks on the 30th.
Local public holidays in 2026
The Official Gazette of Castile-La Mancha lists Monday 1 June 2026, Virgen de la Luz, and Monday 21 September 2026, San Mateo, as Cuenca's local public holidays.
Other events
Holy Week and Religious Music Week complete the cultural calendar, with processions and concerts in churches, streets and historic venues across the city.