Opening Ceremony (“Cohete”) and Botarga Introduction
Arrive at the town square by 11:30 for the rocket launch; the event is festive with music.
~12:00
Candlemas Botarga of Retiendas
Botarga de la Candelaria de Retiendas
Retiendas, Spain
Jan 29 - 30, 2027Expected
Each February 2, the village of Retiendas celebrates Candlemas with its Botarga. A young man dons the patchwork suit of red, yellow, and green, with mask and bells, to lead the day, in a celebration that blends pre-Christian fertility rites with Catholic devotion in rural Guadalajara.
Key moments
Day 1 · Jan 29
Great Bonfire and Sweet Auction (“Luminaria y Almoneda”)
Seek a spot around the bonfire early; enjoy warm atmosphere as families gather for the ritual.
~16:30
Day 2 · Jan 30
Candlemas Mass and Procession with the Botarga
Arrive early to find seating in church or along the procession route; maintain silence out of respect during the ceremony.
~11:00
Where it happens
Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Retiendas, Spain
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Plan the timing
Visitors may join public areas of processions but should not interfere with the religious c...
Dress for the setting
Visitors should remain respectful during religious ceremonies and stable grounds are uneven...
Ask before close-up photos
Ask permission
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
The main square fills up especially during the bonfire and procession.
Weather
Typically cold winter weather; snow is possible, so check forecast for conditions.
Transport
Bus service (line 032) from Guadalajara via Humanes connects to Retiendas, and local taxis are available.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Safety & access
Generally very safe rural venue with local crowd; standard precautions against pickpocketing in crowds.
Reviewed mediaLOCAL RELIGIOUS RITUAL
Candlemas Botarga of Retiendas
Botarga de la Candelaria de Retiendas
Retiendas, Spain
Each February 2, the village of Retiendas celebrates Candlemas with its Botarga. A young man dons the patchwork suit of red, yellow, and green, with mask and bells, to lead the day, in a celebration that blends pre-Christian fertility rites with Catholic devotion in rural Guadalajara.
Jan 29 - 30, 2027Expected dates
Recently verified
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The story behind it
The festival blends pre-Christian fertility rites with Catholic devotion. The Botarga figure is a regional folk character seen in several nearby villages, representing a playful spirit of spring renewal. In Retiendas it is tied to La Candelaria (Candlemas), reflecting the town’s patronage of the Virgin and the coming of spring.. Villagers view the Botarga de Retiendas as a core part of their identity: a living village traditi...
Key moments to know
Day 1Jan 292 moments
Day 1Jan 29~12:00Expected
Opening Ceremony (“Cohete”) and Botarga Introduction
Arrive at the town square by 11:30 for the rocket launch; the event is festive with music.
Day 1Jan 29~16:30Expected
Great Bonfire and Sweet Auction (“Luminaria y Almoneda”)
Seek a spot around the bonfire early; enjoy warm atmosphere as families gather for the ritual.
Day 2Jan 30
Day 2Jan 30~11:00Expected
Candlemas Mass and Procession with the Botarga
Arrive early to find seating in church or along the procession route; maintain silence out of respect during the ceremony.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Plan the timing
Visitors may join public areas of processions but should not interfere with the religious ceremony. Participati...
Dress for the setting
Visitors should remain respectful during religious ceremonies and stable grounds are uneven walking on village...
Ask before close-up photos
Ask permission
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Jan 29 - 30, 2027
Estimated
City / Area
Retiendas
Castilla-La Mancha
Access
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas (MAD) · 100 km from festival
Cost
Free entry
Budget: €50-80, Mid-range: €100-150, Luxury: €200+
Atmosphere
Colorful and lively, with drumming and dancing throughout the villa...
The main square fills up especially during the bonfire an...
Good for
Families, culture enthusiasts
Moderate visitor welcome
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