Fiestas in Galicia

Here is a list of some of the most popular fiestas and carnivals to occur in Galicia including St James’s Day, Flower pavements, A Rapa das Bestas and Os Peliqueiros.

Os Peliqueiros Carnival – February/March – Laza, Ourense

Dressed up in grinning masks and outlandish costumes, with cowbells tied to their belts and brandishing sticks, Os Peliqueiros take to the streets on Carnival Sunday.

They are licensed to lash out at onlookers, who are forbidden to retaliate. On Carnival Monday a battle takes place, with flour, water and live ants used as ammunition. Laza’s carnival comes to an end on the Tuesday with a reading of the satirical ‘Donkey’s Will’ and the burning of an effigy.

A Rapa das Bestas – May and June – Oia, Pontevedra

Semi-wild horses are rounded up by local farmers for their manes and tails to be cut. What was once a chore is now a popular fiesta.

Flower pavements – Corpus Christi, May and June – Ponteareas, Pontevedra

The streets of the town along which the Corpus Christi procession passes are carpeted with intricate designs made from brightly coloured flower petals.

St James’s Day – 25 July – Santiago de Compostela

On the night before, there is a firework display in the Praza do Obradoiro. The celebrations are especially wild when 25 July falls on a Sunday

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