From July 9 to 12, 2026, the historic center of Oviedo will transform into a real medieval town. The festival El Primer Peregrino (“The First Pilgrim”) is dedicated to the journey of King Alfonso II, who is considered the first pilgrim on the way to Santiago de Compostela. Guests can expect historical reenactments, a craft market, concerts, theatrical performances, gastronomic events, and dozens of free activities.
When it takes place
📅 July 9-12, 2026
📍 Cathedral Square and the historic center of Oviedo
All events are free.
What to expect
During the festival, the city center will be filled with the atmosphere of the 9th century:
- ⚔ Historical reenactments
- 🏕 Medieval camp
- 🎭 Theatrical tours of Oviedo in the time of Alfonso II
- 👧 Workshops for children “Little Pilgrims”
- 🚶 Alfonso’s pilgrimage
- 🎵 Concerts and street performances
- 🎭 Grand theatrical performance “The First Pilgrim” (July 11 at 22:00)
Asturias Primitiva Market
In the square in front of the cathedral, the Mercado Asturias Primitiva will be held.
Here you can purchase:
- products from Asturian craftsmen;
- products related to the routes of Saint James;
- local cheeses, sausages, sweets;
- souvenirs;
- traditional dishes of Asturian cuisine.
Market hours
July 9 (Thursday)
17:00-21:00
July 10 and 11 (Friday and Saturday)
11:30-21:00
July 12 (Sunday)
11:30-20:00
Opening program
July 9
- 18:00 — festival presentation at the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias;
- 19:00 — concert Un de Grao Trío at Cathedral Square.
Theatrical performance
The main event of the festival will be the play “The First Pilgrim”, dedicated to the journey of Alfonso II.
📅 July 11
🕙 22:00
Gastronomic days Tortos del Camino
From July 3 to 12, the IV Gastronomic Days Tortos del Camino will take place in Oviedo.
In the city’s restaurants, you can try traditional tortos (Asturian corn cakes) with various fillings and dishes of modern cuisine.
Why you should come
The festival El Primer Peregrino is considered one of the most atmospheric historical celebrations in Oviedo. It is an opportunity to see the city as it might have been over a thousand years ago, to get acquainted with the traditions of the Camino de Santiago, to taste local cuisine, and to spend several days amidst music, theater, and a medieval atmosphere.
