San Mateo Festival set to boost La Rioja’s travel sector as Leading Cultural Event Returns, Showcasing Wine Traditions and Harvest Celebrations for 100,000 Visitors

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Nestled in the heart of La Rioja, Spain’s world-renowned wine region, the San Mateo Festival is a week-long celebration unlike any other. From September 20 to 26, 2024, the vibrant city of Logroño will transform into a living, breathing testament to Spanish tradition, culture, and the joy of community. Often referred to as the Rioja Wine Harvest Festival, this annual event marks the beginning of the grape harvest and honors Saint Matthew, the city’s patron saint.

For travelers seeking a truly authentic Spanish experience, the San Mateo Festival offers an unparalleled journey through history, gastronomy, and celebration.

Highlights of San Mateo Festival 2024

1. The Procesión de San Mateo: A Time-Honored Tradition
At the heart of this festival is the Procesión de San Mateo, a solemn yet beautiful procession that pays homage to Saint Matthew. Taking place on September 21, this religious event is one of the most meaningful aspects of the celebration, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s deep-rooted traditions. Expect stunning costumes, centuries-old rituals, and a captivating atmosphere that fills the streets of Logroño.

2. Grape Crushing Ceremony: A Celebration of the Harvest
One of the most iconic events of the San Mateo Festival is the Crushing of the Grapes. Held in the city’s central square, this traditional ceremony symbolizes the beginning of the grape harvest. Local dignitaries and even members of the public are invited to crush grapes barefoot, producing the first must of the season. The energy in the air is electric as the city comes together to celebrate the fruits of their labor — and their famous Rioja wine.

3. Parades and Colorful Celebrations
Throughout the week, the streets of Logroño come alive with vibrant parades that showcase the city’s history and culture. Floats, costumes, and traditional music fill the city with an infectious energy. Whether you’re watching the grand spectacle of the daytime processions or enjoying the intimate charm of nighttime street performances, the parades offer something for every visitor to enjoy.

4. Bullfighting and Bull Runs: A Nod to Tradition
For those interested in Spain’s more traditional sports, bullfighting plays a central role in the San Mateo festivities. The city’s bullring becomes a hub of activity, where locals and visitors alike gather to witness this historic Spanish practice. Morning bull runs — where locals run alongside bulls through the streets — add to the thrill of the celebration, providing a truly authentic cultural experience.

5. Nightly Fireworks: A Dazzling Display
Each night, the skies over Logroño are illuminated by spectacular fireworks displays. The grand finale, known as the Fuegos de San Mateo, is a breathtaking show that brings together locals and tourists for a dazzling conclusion to the day’s festivities. Watching the fireworks light up the night sky while surrounded by the festive buzz of the city is an unforgettable experience.

6. Tapas and Rioja Wine: A Culinary Delight
Of course, no visit to La Rioja would be complete without indulging in the region’s famous food and wine. The San Mateo Festival is a celebration of Rioja wine, and there’s no shortage of opportunities to taste this world-class product. Wander through Calle Laurel, Logroño’s famous tapas street, and savor the flavors of local delicacies paired with the region’s finest wines. Don’t forget to try zurracapote, a traditional festival drink made with wine and fruit — often shared freely by members of the local peñas (social clubs).

7. Music, Dance, and Festive Energy
The rhythm of the festival pulses through every corner of Logroño. Concerts, street performances, and impromptu parties fill the evenings with music and dance. Whether you’re swaying to the sounds of traditional Spanish folk or dancing along to modern hits, the energy is infectious, and the city comes alive in ways that will leave you with cherished memories.

Spain’s Tourism Surges Beyond Pre-Pandemic Levels in 2023

In 2023, Spain’s tourism industry made a remarkable comeback, bouncing back from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The total number of international visitors, including both same-day and overnight tourists, surged past 125 million — a significant milestone that marked a full recovery for the country’s tourism sector. The year prior, in 2022, Spain had already welcomed over 100 million international visitors, a number that hadn’t been seen since the pandemic began.

Top Countries of Origin for Spain’s Visitors

In 2022, British tourists led the way, with over 15 million visitors arriving from the United Kingdom, making it Spain’s largest source of international travelers. France, Spain’s neighbor to the northeast, ranked second with more than 10 million French tourists. Among Spain’s 17 autonomous communities, Catalonia stood out as the most popular destination, drawing nearly 15 million international visitors, solidifying its place as a top hotspot for global tourism.

Travel Guide: How to Experience San Mateo Festival 2024

1. Accommodations in Logroño

Finding the right place to stay during the San Mateo Festival is key to making your trip comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you prefer a luxurious hotel or a cozy boutique stay, Logroño has plenty of options.

• Hotel Calle Mayor: A stylish, contemporary hotel set in a historic building, just minutes away from the city’s main attractions.
• Eurostars Fuerte Ruavieja: Located in the old town, this hotel blends modern amenities with a charming rustic setting.
• Hotel Gran Vía: This 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms and is situated right along the festival route.
• Mercure Carlton Rioja: Centrally located with fantastic service, perfect for those wanting to be in the heart of the action.
• Hotel Marqués de Vallejo: A boutique hotel known for its elegant design and proximity to major festival events.

2. Must-See Tourist Spots in Logroño

While the San Mateo Festival is the star of the show, Logroño offers plenty of attractions to explore during your stay. From historical sites to beautiful parks, the city is full of charm.

• Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda: A striking cathedral with stunning Baroque-style towers, right in the heart of the old town.
• Calle Laurel: The famous street known for its delicious tapas and buzzing nightlife — a must-visit during the festival.
• Puente de Piedra: The iconic stone bridge over the Ebro River offers fantastic views of the city.
• Parque del Ebro: Escape the festival crowds with a peaceful walk along the Ebro River in this beautiful park.
• Bodegas Franco-Españolas: Take a tour of one of Logroño’s most famous wineries, located just a short walk from the city center.

3. Dining and Tapas Hotspots

La Rioja is renowned for its cuisine, and Logroño’s dining scene shines during the festival. From tapas bars to fine dining, there’s no shortage of incredible food to try.

• La Taberna del Tio Blas: A popular tapas bar on Calle Laurel, known for its creative small plates and vibrant atmosphere.
• Tondeluna: A modern restaurant offering seasonal, local dishes with a contemporary twist.
• La Brasa de La Laurel: Specializing in grilled meats, this is the perfect spot for hearty traditional Spanish food.
• Cachetero: One of the oldest restaurants in the city, offering a refined take on classic Riojan cuisine.
• Restaurante Torres Gastrobar: A local favorite for innovative dishes using fresh, regional ingredients.

4. Getting Around: Transportation Tips

Navigating Logroño during the San Mateo Festival is easy, with many options available to get you from event to event.

• Walking: The city center is highly walkable, and most festival events are accessible on foot. Plus, it allows you to soak in the lively atmosphere.
• Local Buses: Logroño’s buses are a convenient way to travel between neighborhoods, especially if you’re staying farther from the city center.
• Taxis: Taxis are plentiful during the festival, but be aware that demand may be high, especially in the evenings.
• Bike Rentals: For a more eco-friendly way to explore the city, consider renting a bike — Logroño’s relatively flat terrain makes it an easy cycling city.
• Car Rentals: If you’re planning to explore more of the La Rioja region, renting a car is ideal. Just note that some streets may be closed due to festival events.

5. Essential Tips for the San Mateo Festival

To make the most of your experience at the San Mateo Festival, keep these handy tips in mind. They’ll help you navigate the events, understand local customs, and ensure you don’t miss a thing.

• Join a Peña: Social clubs called peñas are central to the festival, offering free drinks and tapas to members. Tourists can often join in on the fun!
• Bring Cash: Many of the smaller festival stalls and tapas bars prefer cash over cards, so be prepared.
• Plan for the Crowds: The festival draws thousands, so arrive early to major events like the grape crushing or fireworks for the best views.
• Stay Hydrated: With all the wine tasting, be sure to drink plenty of water, especially if the weather is warm.
• Dress for the Occasion: While casual clothing is fine, the festival has its own traditional flair, with locals often donning colorful costumes. Feel free to get into the spirit with a festive scarf or hat!

The San Mateo Festival 2024 in Logroño is a celebration of the senses — from the taste of Rioja wine to the vibrant sights and sounds of parades, music, and fireworks. For travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience in Spain, this festival offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of La Rioja’s harvest season. The warmth of the local community, the richness of the region’s traditions, and the joy of the festivities make San Mateo an unforgettable destination.