Txupinazo (Opening Rocket)
Thousands of locals and visitors gather in the main square to witness the rocket launch and join in cheering.
~18:00
Festivities of the Virgin Blanca (Vitoria-Gasteiz)
Andre Maria Zuriaren Jaiak
Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
Aug 4 - 9, 2026ConfirmedSource
Each August, the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz dresses in white to honor its patroness, the Virgin Blanca. The festival opens with a rocket and the famous descent of Celedón, a figure who glides down on a cord from the church belfry to the cheering square, kicking off days of parades, music, and revelry.
Key moments
Aug 4
Zeledonen Jaitsiera (Descent of Zeledon)
Families and children watch from the plaza as Zeledon makes his descent, a joyous and unique spectacle of the festival.
~18:10
Where it happens
Plaza de la Virgen Blanca
Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Dress for the setting
Wear comfortable summer clothing; locals often wear traditional white dresses/scarves
Read the local rhythm
Familiarize yourself with the festival program to catch key ceremonies
Keep the visit respectful
Be prepared for large crowds and festivities into the night
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: very high.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR RELIGIOUS RITUAL
Festivities of the Virgin Blanca (Vitoria-Gasteiz)
Andre Maria Zuriaren Jaiak
Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
Each August, the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz dresses in white to honor its patroness, the Virgin Blanca. The festival opens with a rocket and the famous descent of Celedón, a figure who glides down on a cord from the church belfry to the cheering square, kicking off days of parades, music, and revelry.
AnchorCultural anchor
Aug 4 - 9, 2026Confirmed dates
Verified this year
Saved locally on this device. A free account keeps your shortlist across devices.
The story behind it
Deeply embedded in Vitorian civic and religious tradition since the mid-20th century, this event blends devotional ceremonies with secular street parties. It reflects the city’s identity and history, dating back to the establishment of the Virgin Blanca as patroness after the Spanish Civil War.
Key moments to know
Aug 42 moments
Aug 4~18:00Expected
Txupinazo (Opening Rocket)
Thousands of locals and visitors gather in the main square to witness the rocket launch and join in cheering.
Aug 4~18:10Expected
Zeledonen Jaitsiera (Descent of Zeledon)
Families and children watch from the plaza as Zeledon makes his descent, a joyous and unique spectacle of the festival.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Dress for the setting
Wear comfortable summer clothing; locals often wear traditional white dresses/scarves
Read the local rhythm
Familiarize yourself with the festival program to catch key ceremonies
Keep the visit respectful
Be prepared for large crowds and festivities into the night
Photo with care
Visitors should remain respectful during religious ceremonies (e.g., silence in church) and dress modestly if a...
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Aug 4 - 9, 2026
Confirmed
City / Area
Vitoria-Gasteiz
Basque (Vitoria-Gasteiz)
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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