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Our Lady of Victories Festivities in Puebla de Sanabria

Every September, Puebla de Sanabria dresses up to celebrate its most emblematic festivities in honor of Our Lady of Victories. From September 5th to 9th, the town transforms into a hub of music, color, and tradition, attracting locals, visitors, and all those who once left and now return with nostalgia to reconnect with their roots.

These festivities are a time for hope and the celebration of life, combining solemn acts with the overflowing joy of its people.

A Little Bit of History
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The devotion and traditions surrounding the Fiestas de las Victorias have deep roots in the town’’s history.

Our Lady of Victorias
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The devotion to the Virgin of Victories was officially established in 1848, inspired by the reading of a Parisian religious work. Since then, the image of the Virgin has been the centerpiece of the festival, and her procession on September 8th is one of the most solemn and emotional moments, uniting generations of Sanabrians.

Giants and Big-Heads (Gigantes y Cabezudos)
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Shortly after, in the same year 1848, Puebla’’s beloved giants and big-heads were born. Figures like La Negra, El Chino, El Aplanchetado, or the Guardia Civil became the heralds of the festival. Every September 7th, they parade through the cobbled streets announcing the big day, and on the 8th, they accompany the Virgin in her procession, adding a touch of color and fantasy to the tradition. Over the years, the troupe has grown, but always maintaining its original spirit.

The Fire Bulls (Toros de Fuego)
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The first fire bull was set off on the night of September 7, 1948, to commemorate the centenary of the Virgin. Since then, it has become one of the most anticipated traditions. There are two versions:

  • The Children’’s Bull (Toro Infantil): A smaller frame with controlled pyrotechnics so that the little ones can run and enjoy the excitement without danger.
  • The Fire Bull for “Adults”: Larger and more robust, this bull not only shoots sparks but also “buscapiés” (firecrackers that jump and whistle), creating a spectacle of adrenaline and fire that illuminates the Plaza Mayor.

Since 2011, the passion for it is so great that on September 7th, an Encierro de Toros de Fuego (Running of the Fire Bulls) is held, a parade of sparks and emotion that runs through the town.

Essential Events
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Although the program may vary slightly each year, these are the events you can’’t miss:

September 5th
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  • Gathering of Peñas (local clubs) at the “El Pilón” Fountain for the traditional parade to the Plaza Mayor.
  • Opening speech (Pregón), coronation of the King, Queen, and Ladies, and the “chupinazo” to kick off the festivities.
  • All-night street party (Verbena) and, of course, watch out for the Fire Bulls!

September 6th
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  • Various activities during the day.
  • Afternoon street party with a Children’’s Bull.
  • Running of the Fire Bulls through the streets.
  • Grand all-night street party. Watch out for the Miuras!

September 7th
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  • Ringing of bells and parade of Giants and Big-Heads.
  • Public lunch at the Chopera de San Francisco.
  • In the evening, an afternoon street party with a Children’’s Bull and a grand all-night street party.

September 8th (The Big Day)
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  • Solemn Mass in honor of the Virgin.
  • Procession of Our Lady of Victories, accompanied by the Giants and Big-Heads.
  • Spectacular fireworks display.
  • Grand street party to close the big day.

September 9th
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  • Mass in honor of the deceased of the town.
  • Traditional Cojinetes Race (bearing race).
  • Final street party and the peculiar football match in underwear to say goodbye to the festivities.

Note: These events are a general guide and may be subject to change. It is recommended to consult the official program for each year.