In Zaragoza, the season has arrived when the city fills with a special energy: drums, children’s laughter, and towering figures rising above the crowds. This marks the return of the giants and horsemen, who have been an integral part of the main October celebration—the Fiestas del Pilar—for more than two centuries.
In 2024, the authorities of Aragón officially recognized this vibrant parade as intangible cultural heritage, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the current group of giants. Today, 27 figures take part in the procession: fourteen giants, eleven horsemen, and two horses. It is one of the largest ensembles of its kind in Spain and continues to reflect the festive spirit of the city.
The tradition dates back to the early 19th century, when only four giants appeared on the streets, each symbolizing a known continent at the time. They were accompanied by characters such as Morico, Berrugón, Forano, and Tuerto. Over time, the collection expanded with new heroes, including such iconic figures as Agustina de Aragón, José de Palafox, and even the artist Goya with his wife Josefa Bayeu—who were added in 2022.
This year, the procession has already marched down the city’s main streets during the opening parade on October 4, followed by appearances in the neighborhoods of San José and Romareda. Thousands of families took to the streets to once again see their favorite characters, who never fail to delight both children and adults.
For those who haven’t yet met these characters, there’s no need to worry: more performances are coming. On Wednesday, October 8, at 18:00, the parade will set off from Centro Cívico Casetas and make its way through Huesca, America, Catalonia, Virgen de la Rosa, Nuestra Señora del Carmen, San Jorge, Aragón and Ramón y Cajal streets, finishing at the PDM Casetas sports complex. In the following days, the route will cover the neighborhoods of Montecanal, Puerto Venecia, La Jota, and Monzalbarba.
The giants and horsemen are more than just entertainment. They embody the living memory of the city, its artistic traditions, and collective identity. Each October, their appearance in the streets symbolizes Zaragoza’s ability to preserve its roots and celebrate life, passing this spirit from generation to generation.
