Celebrating the Wine Route: A Year-Round Festival Calendar

The festival calendar is brimming with celebrations throughout the year, offering a vibrant tapestry of cultural events that reflect the rich heritage of the Wine Route. With its delightful climate and the allure of local festivities, visitors can experience the Wine Route from a fresh and exciting perspective.

Notable Festivals Along the Wine Route

Among the many celebrations, Jumilla’s Holy Week stands out as a highlight. Declared of International Tourist Interest, this event boasts over 600 years of history, characterized by its artistic richness and vibrant colors. The processions and events during this week are a feast for the senses, showcasing the deep-rooted traditions of the region.

Similarly, Hellín’s Holy Week has earned recognition as a National Tourist Interest event, drawing visitors eager to witness its unique celebrations. The passion and devotion displayed during these festivities are palpable, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the area.

Another significant event is the Tamborada de Tobarra, which UNESCO recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2018. This festival features the rhythmic beating of drums, creating an atmosphere of excitement and community spirit. Additionally, in Ontur, the festivities in honor of Saint Joseph, held in March, shine with their own unique charm, offering a glimpse into local traditions.

The Grape Harvest Festival in Jumilla is another highlight, culminating in the grand Wine Parade in August. This celebration not only honors the region’s viticulture but also brings together locals and visitors for a joyous celebration of wine and community. Various towns along the Wine Route also host their own patron saint festivals, each with its own distinctive flair.

Jumilla Calendar: A Month-by-Month Breakdown

August

• August 13: Exaltation of Wine (Exaltación del vino)
• August 15: Wine Fair
• August 14–15: Sonovin Monastrell
• August 14–23: Patron Saint Festivals of Regional Tourist Interest
  • National Folklore Festival
  • Grape Harvest Festival
  • Children’s Parade
  • Offering of grapes and the first must
  • Traditional Parade
  • Grand Wine Parade
• Cañada del Trigo district festivals in honor of the Virgin of Remedies (Virgen de los Remedios)
• Torre del Rico district festivals in honor of the Virgin of the Rosary (Virgen del Rosario)

September

• September 26 & 27: World Tourism Day (event to be determined)
  • Music Among Wines (Música Entre Vinos)
• September 12 & 13: Román district festivals in honor of Santa Rita
• September 19 & 20: La Estacada district festivals

October

• Beber con Ojos (Drink with Your Eyes) photography contest
• October 24 & 25: Matavendimia (End of Harvest Celebration)

November

• Date to be determined: Presentation of the Golden Badge of the Jumilla Wine Route
• Santa Cecilia
• Full Month: Gastronomic Days
• Full Month: “Drink with Your Eyes” Photography Exhibition
• November 7 & 8: European Day of Enotourism (event to be determined)

December

• Barbudo Sky Race (mountain race)
• Christmas Fun Run (Carrera popular Navideña)
• December 30: Pre-uvas (New Year’s Eve rehearsal celebration)
• Festivals of the Virgin of Loreto in the Old Town
• Christmas Proclamation (Pregón de la Navidad)

Year-Round Events: Guided and/or theatrical tours are offered every month, along with wine tastings at the Wine Museum.

Hellín Calendar: A Celebration of Culture

July to December Highlights

• July 30 to August 2: Las Minas district festivals in honor of Saint Anthony of Padua.
• August 7 & 8: Station Neighborhood (Barrio de la Estación) Festivals.
• August 22 to 27: Agramón district festivals in honor of Saint Joachim.
• September 4: Commerce and Hospitality Festival. El Rabal – Múevete II.
• September 26 to October 4: Hellín Fair in honor of Our Lady of the Rosary.
• October 12 to 25: Main Patron Saint Festivals in honor of Saint Raphael (San Rafael).
  • Includes various events such as the traditional release of brave bulls and a solemn Eucharist.
• November 14 to 20: V International Film Festival of Hellín.
• December 12: II “City of Hellín” Christmas Gala.
• December 17 to 27: Christmas Train.

Ontur Calendar: A Unique Rural Festival

August Highlights

• August 1: Mi pueblo en mí – The ‘Pueblo en Mí’ Rural Festival in Ontur features live music, local cuisine, and Jumilla PDO wines. This event promises a full day of entertainment and cultural immersion.

Key Details

• Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026
• Venue: School playground (Ontur, Albacete)
• Artists: King África, DJ Oscar C, and more
• Activities: Music, local tapas, and wines from the Jumilla Wine Route

The Wine Route is not just a journey through picturesque landscapes and vineyards; it is a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and community. Each festival offers a unique opportunity to engage with the local culture, making every visit a memorable experience.