The town of Setenil celebrates many holidays in a year.
First is the New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st of course. Later, from January the 19th to 20th there is the Fiesta del Patrón San Sebastian. This is Setenil’s major festival, dedicated to the town’s patron saint, San Sebastian.
At the end of February Setenil holds its own Carnival. This is a very old tradition that exists to this day, and it usually lasts four or 5 days of music, dancing, fairgrounds and merrymaking.
From March to April, is the Lenten period in all catholic countries including Spain. This is an important season in the Catholic calendar. The season ends with the Semana Santa (“Holy Week”), in the second or third week of April. This solemn week commemorates the Biblical events before Jesus Christ’s death. Easter Sunday culminates the Holy Week and the Lenten Season.
From May the 11th to 13th, the Romeria de San Isidro Labrador takes place. This is a pilgrimage in honor of the saint San Isidro. The locals walk to a sacred shrine in a secluded spot away from the town.
Next follows the annual fair held in August which is another time of fiestas and laughter.
On the 1st November, the locals remember and honor their loved ones who have passed away. This day is called Todos Los Santos (“All Saint’s Day”).
Finally, Christmas Day is celebrated on December 25th.
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