Official Opening Ceremony & Pregon
Arrive early for a good viewing spot; expect introductory music and fireworks after the speech.
~18:30
Patron Saint Festivities of Saint Sebastian the Martyr
Fiestas Patronales de San Sebastián Mártir
San Sebastián de los Reyes, Spain
Jan 14 - 23, 2027Expected
Each January, the town of San Sebastián de los Reyes near Madrid honors its patron, Saint Sebastian, with days of festivity. A solemn procession of the saint mixes with traditional dances and famous morning bull-runs through the streets, in a celebration that has earned the town the nickname of the little Pamplona.
Key moments
Day 2 · Jan 15
Day 3 · Jan 16
First Encierro Blanco (White Bull Run)
Get to the start or along the route by 10:30. Wear the traditional white and red outfit. Watch for bulls and enjoy the excitement.
~11:00
Day 6 · Jan 19
Festive Mass & Procession (Saint Day)
Dress modestly; attending mass lets you see the town’s devotion. Follow the parade on Calle Real. Remain respectful during prayer.
~12:00
Where it happens
Parroquia San Sebastián Mártir
San Sebastián de los Reyes, Spain
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Ask before close-up photos
Observers should not try to join the religious procession without permission from organizers
Read the local rhythm
Be aware of religious customs during mass and procession. Locals value these traditions.
Respect local boundaries
Use local guidance for access, timing, and respectful participation.
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Main plaza gets crowded during peak events (pregón, encierros, fireworks), more relaxed between.
Weather
January can be cool (5°C-15°C); rain is possible so bring an umbrella or rain jacket.
Transport
Cercanías train line C4; bus lines 153, 154, 155 from Plaza Castilla, 153 from Campo de las Naciones.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Safety & access
Generally very safe in this quiet suburban city. Police and local security present at major events.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR RELIGIOUS RITUAL
Patron Saint Festivities of Saint Sebastian the Martyr
Fiestas Patronales de San Sebastián Mártir
San Sebastián de los Reyes, Spain
Each January, the town of San Sebastián de los Reyes near Madrid honors its patron, Saint Sebastian, with days of festivity. A solemn procession of the saint mixes with traditional dances and famous morning bull-runs through the streets, in a celebration that has earned the town the nickname of the little Pamplona.
AnchorCultural anchor
Jan 14 - 23, 2027Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
The festival honors the city’s patron saint, San Sebastián Martyr, reflecting the town’s historical Catholic heritage. It combines fervent religious observance (mass and procession on the saint’s feast day, January 20) with lively popular customs. The bull-run is a cultural spectacle tied to Madrid’s bull-running traditions, further highlighting the community’s unique customs.
Key moments to know
Day 2Jan 15~18:30Expected
Official Opening Ceremony & Pregon
Arrive early for a good viewing spot; expect introductory music and fireworks after the speech.
Day 3Jan 16~11:00Expected
First Encierro Blanco (White Bull Run)
Get to the start or along the route by 10:30. Wear the traditional white and red outfit. Watch for bulls and enjoy the excitement.
Day 6Jan 19~12:00Expected
Festive Mass & Procession (Saint Day)
Dress modestly; attending mass lets you see the town’s devotion. Follow the parade on Calle Real. Remain respectful during prayer.
Day 18Jan 31~20:30Expected
Closing Concert (Banda Municipal)
Event in an indoor theatre – tickets may be required. Enjoy traditional and celebratory music as the finale.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Ask before close-up photos
Observers should not try to join the religious procession without permission from organizers
Read the local rhythm
Be aware of religious customs during mass and procession. Locals value these traditions.
Respect local boundaries
Use local guidance for access, timing, and respectful participation.
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Jan 14 - 23, 2027
Estimated
City / Area
San Sebastián de los Reyes
San Sebastián de los Reyes
Access
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas (MAD) · 16 km from festival
Cost
Free entry
Budget €70, Mid €120, Comfort €200 per day
Atmosphere
Festive and lively atmosphere with traditional music, dancing, and...
Main plaza gets crowded during peak events (pregón, encie...
Good for
Families, culture enthusiasts
Very High visitor welcome
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