OVER the fridgidly cold ‘extended’ weekend of January 16-19, the region south of Granada celebrated two revered saints – San Antonio Abad (Saint Anthony the Abbot) and San Sebastián. As well as featuring large fiestas – after a slight rest since the Three Kings on January 5-6 – this weekend was the time for religious processions and communal food and drink. As well as large bonfires. Did we mention those?
It was additionally an excuse for anyone called Antonio or Sebastian to celebrate their “saint’s day”. There’s always a reason to celebrate in Andalucia. People would literally celebrate the opening of the proverbial envelope, or the successful opening of their car door in the frost, given half the chance!
What is San Antonio Abad (January 16-17)
San Antonio Abad is the patron saint of animals, and his feast day is observed across Spain. In La Alpujarra, this celebration sometimes includes blessings of animals or, in the case of Torvizcón, having some pigs in public pens.
The most (in)famous tradition associated with San Antonio is the lighting of bonfires, and even barbecues, on January 16 or 17. This custom, taking place in Torvizcón, Soportújar, Tablones of Órgiva, and several of the white villages, is rooted in Catholic and pre-Christian fire rituals. These are probably linked to the winter solstice and warding off evil spirits. Or just warding off the hideous cold!
San Sebastián (January 19-20)
San Sebastián, another important saint, is celebrated around the same time. This year, most events were held on the same weekend (rather than involving two workdays). He is associated with protection against disease and plague. This belief dates back to outbreaks of epidemics in past centuries. It is ironic, with this in mind, that so many people now have winter colds and flu bugs…
During the celebration, the effigy of San Sebastián is paraded through the streets. In some villages, people light candles in his honour. or throw confetti. As well as throwing ‘cohetes’ (fireworks) around – a tradition that always upsets pet owners.
A lively weekend
This year was a big one! It saw town fiestas, municipal ‘carpas’ with reggaeton DJs, and private parties in community centres and indoor venues. The fun was non-stop in some towns, continuing from Friday to Sunday.
Whether you attended a rave in a riverbed, a dub dancehall event, or just stayed up late with friends, there as a vast choice of fire, food, and frivolity.
Photo gallery courtesy of Ayuntamiento de Soportújar (town hall)
If you missed the fun…
Despite the widespread partying, those who stayed at home can’t be blamed. With the mercury descending below zero, what better “fire festival” than your own ‘lumbre’ . This has the advantage of your bed nearby, and no risk of a DGT ‘multa’ for imbibing more than one ‘vino’!
Remember that if you missed the fun, it’s never long until the next celebration. We have Valentine’s Day on February 14, ‘Carnaval’ on 3 March, and Semana Santa in April, when it will surely be warmer.
Bear a thought for those who drank too much on Saturday 18 and slept in their cars….
