September in Spain marks not only the end of the high tourist season but also the beginning of a series of vibrant autumn festivals. Traditional fiestas are held across the country, offering a deeper insight into local culture, folklore, and gastronomy. This month, travelers can witness unique events in Andalucía, Castilla y León, Murcia, Catalunya, and La Rioja, each showcasing the distinctive character of its region.
In Andalucía, one of the main events of the month will be the Fiesta de la Vendimia de Jerez de la Frontera, taking place from August 30 to September 14. These celebrations are dedicated to the region’s winemaking culture and its renowned sherry. The festival program is packed with activities, from tastings and wine routes to traditional performances. Visitors will enjoy spectacular flamenco shows, equestrian exhibitions, festive parades, and, of course, the main ceremony—the symbolic grape treading (Pisa de la Uva). This festival is a must for wine lovers and tourists visiting Andalucía in the first half of September.
From September 7 to 15, Salamanca, located in the autonomous community of Castilla y León, will celebrate its patron festival in honor of the Virgen de la Vega. This is one of the city’s largest festivities, featuring a program of more than a hundred different events. The streets will come alive with music from concerts and street bands (charangas), and fireworks will light up the sky. As part of the fiesta, the 19th Festival de Artes de Calle will take place, along with folkloric parades. The highlight of the celebration will be the traditional floral offering to the Virgin’s image, which will take place on September 8.
In Murcia, from September 9 to 16, the renowned Fiesta de Moros y Cristianos will be held as part of the city’s annual fair. This tradition recreates two key historical events in the city’s history: its foundation by Emir Abd ar-Rahman II and the handing over of the keys to Infante Alfonso of Castile, the future King Alfonso X the Wise. The main elements of the celebration include a Medieval camp, a spectacular parade on the Day of the Troops’ Entry, and two theatrical performances depicting the negotiations and transfer of power.
Barcelona’s main festival, La Mercè (Fiestas de la Mercè), will take place from September 23 to 28. Every year, it offers hundreds of events for all audiences. Special emphasis is placed on traditional Catalan culture: visitors can see human towers (castells), parades of giant puppets (gigantes y cabezudos), and the fiery Correfoc show. In addition, the independent music festival BAM features numerous concerts, many of which are free. The festivities culminate in a spectacular pyromusical show, combining fireworks, music, and lighting effects on Montjuïc hill.
The Rioja Grape Harvest Festival, also known as the Fiestas de la Vendimia Riojana o de San Mateo, wraps up the September celebrations from September 20 to 26. This is the region’s most beloved event, marking the start of the grape harvest. Among the many activities in the capital, Logroño, the grape treading ceremony and the offering of the season’s first must to the Virgen de Valvanera stand out. Visitors can also look forward to young bull runs (encierros con vaquillas), street parades, decorated float processions, live music, and gastronomic tastings.
