The Fiestas del Pilar in Zaragoza

During the Fiestas del Pilar, more than 500 cultural and recreational events are held for all ages, with over 90% taking place on the streets and being free to attend.

The fair kicks off with the opening speech in Plaza del Pilar, marking the start of the festivities. From that moment on, the streets of the city’s historic center come alive with people, music, and color, transforming into stages for countless concerts, plays, and other performances for all audiences. The celebrations last from early morning until late at night.

Craftsmanship plays a significant role during the fair, along with the giant and big-headed figures, and of course, the gastronomy. Bars and restaurants throughout the city offer a wide and varied selection of typical Aragonese cuisine.

October 12th is the main day of the Feria del Pilar and also the most emotional. The day begins with the Rosario de la Aurora, a dawn procession that gathers hundreds of people as they walk through the streets from San Pablo Church to the Basilica of Pilar. Later in the morning, the Flower Offering takes place, where thousands of people dressed in traditional attire present millions of flowers to the Virgen del Pilar.

The following day, October 13th, features the Fruit Offering, and in the evening, the Rosario de Cristal, a procession through the historic center of the city, with over 200 lanterns and 15 glass carriages.

Among the many activities, bullfighting holds a prominent place in the Feria del Pilar, with the La Misericordia bullring often selling out daily. The fair concludes with a spectacular fireworks display along the banks of the Ebro River, providing one of the most picturesque views of the city.