Fiesta de El Cristo

Known as Fiesta del Santo Cristo where they honor Jesus on the cross and everything that happened to get to that point and why he did it. There are often special events, from festivals to special readings of the Bible.

This event is held every year. The Fiesta de El Cristo is a patronal celebration built around a venerated image of Christ; the date is set by the parish within its own tradition rather than by a universal calendar date, and the programme is published a few weeks ahead. Confirm it with the parish if you are planning a trip around it.

What these feasts involve. A novena of masses in the nine days before, the principal mass on the day, and a procession carrying the image through the streets of the neighbourhood, accompanied by a band and by dance groups. The atrium is dressed with flowers and papel picado. Outside, a fair with food stalls, rides and games runs for several days, and fireworks close the main night.

Who keeps it going. The mayordomía: the households that take on the organisation and much of the cost of the year's feast. The responsibility rotates between families and is often committed to years in advance, which is why these celebrations survive independently of any institution.

Practical notes. Entry is free, the fair runs on cash, and the fireworks come late. Ask before photographing people or the image.