Event Details
What Is Los Escobazos?
Los Escobazos is one of Spain's most striking fire festivals. Every year on the evening of 7 December, residents and visitors of the small town of Jarandilla de la Vera in Extremadura gently strike each other with flaming brooms made of broom shrub branches ("escobones"); a ritual that recalls the shepherds of the Sierra de Gredos, who once came down from the mountains at night lighting their way with burning torches. Since 2024, the festival holds the official title of Fiesta de Interés Turístico Nacional (Festival of National Tourist Interest).
When and Where Does Los Escobazos Take Place in 2026?
Los Escobazos is held every year on 7 December; in 2026 that falls on a Monday, with celebrations continuing into the early hours of 8 December. The festival takes place in the old town of Jarandilla de la Vera, in the province of Cáceres; the main gathering points are the Plaza Mayor and the Plaza de Sopetrán, where the largest bonfires are lit.
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What Happens During the Flaming Broom Festival?
On the afternoon of 7 December, the traditional descent of the shepherds from the mountains is reenacted for visitors. Around 7:00 PM, the main celebration begins: hand tied brooms and large bonfires are lit across the squares and narrow streets, some flames rising several metres high. Locals gently strike each other below the waist with the burning brooms as a friendly greeting, while pitarra wine and local specialties are shared. At 9:00 PM, as church bells ring out, the banner of the Virgin of the Conception leaves the parish church of Santa María de la Torre; a mounted "Mayordomo" leads the procession through streets lit by fire, accompanied by riders and torch bearers. The following day, 8 December, features a mass and the procession honouring the Immaculate Conception.
How to Get to Jarandilla de la Vera
Jarandilla de la Vera sits in the La Vera valley, about 130 kilometres north of Cáceres and roughly 190 kilometres southwest of Madrid. Driving via the A5 and EX203 is the easiest option; the nearest train station is in Plasencia, with connecting buses into the region. Since the village fills up quickly during the festival, arriving early and booking accommodation ahead of time are strongly recommended.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Entry to all festival activities is free.
- Wear closed, sturdy shoes and old, fire resistant clothing, as sparks are part of the celebration.
- Keep a safe distance from the large bonfires and the burning brooms, especially with children nearby.
- Book accommodation in Jarandilla de la Vera months in advance, as the region has limited capacity.
- Visit the Museo de Los Escobazos, open year round in the former Ermita del Santo Sepulcro, to learn more about the festival's history.
