Day of Asturias 2025 in Spain

The Day of Asturias (Día de Asturias) is celebrated on September 8th, coinciding with the feast of Our Lady of Covadonga, the region's patron saint. The day is marked with cultural events, traditional music, and regional festivities that honor Asturias' rich heritage and identity.

Day of Asturias: A Public Holiday?

The Day of Asturias is a public holiday in the region, with schools, businesses, and government offices closed as people come together to celebrate Asturias' culture, traditions, and patron saint, Our Lady of Covadonga.

Day of Asturias

The Day of Asturias, or Día de Asturias, is celebrated on September 8th, coinciding with the feast of Our Lady of Covadonga, the patron saint of the region. This date is significant because Covadonga is deeply connected to Asturias' history, symbolizing the beginning of the Reconquista, when Christian forces resisted Moorish rule in the 8th century. The Battle of Covadonga, led by King Pelayo, marked the first major victory against the Moors and is considered the foundation of the Kingdom of Asturias.

The region's rich cultural and historical identity is closely tied to this event, and over time, September 8th became a day of regional pride. Asturias, with its deep Celtic and Christian influences, has maintained its distinct traditions, language variations, and customs. The Day of Asturias honors its history, religious devotion, and cultural uniqueness, making it one of the most important celebrations in the region.

Day of Asturias Celebration in Spain

The Day of Asturias is celebrated with official ceremonies, religious events, and cultural festivities across the region. The most important celebration occurs at the Sanctuary of Covadonga, where thousands gather to honor Our Lady of Covadonga. A special Mass is held and attended by local authorities and religious figures. Many people make pilgrimages to this sacred site, paying tribute to Asturias' patron saint. In other parts of the region, churches also hold services to mark the occasion.

Music and dance are at the heart of the festivities. Traditional Asturian bagpipes, known as gaitas, fill the streets with lively melodies, and folk dancers perform in traditional Asturian attire. Communities organize parades, concerts, and local fairs, where people celebrate with food, crafts, and sports. A highlight of the day is the Asturian cider, which is poured in the famous high-pouring style known as escanciado. Local dishes like fabada asturiana and cachopo are enjoyed with family and friends.

Beyond the celebrations, Día de Asturias is a symbol of regional pride and unity. It reinforces Asturias' cultural identity and historical importance within Spain. The day reminds people of their heritage, from the early days of the Reconquista to the present, ensuring that Asturian traditions and values continue to be cherished for generations.

Day of Asturias Observances