When did the Day of Asturias in Spain start?
About Day of Asturias in Spain Holiday
The Day of Asturias in Spain is an annual holiday celebrated every September 8th in honour of the people of Asturias and their unique culture. It is a joyful day filled with traditional music, dance, and activities that honour the people of this Spanish region. This year, 2023 is no exception, and festivities will be taking place in cities, towns, and villages across Asturias.
The Day of Asturias is celebrated in honor of the region's patron saint, the Virgin of Covadonga, as well as the traditional Asturian folklore and culture. On this day, people can expect local festivities including parades, concerts, and more. There will also be historical sites, monuments and museums open to the public to visit in order to gain a better understanding of the culture and history of the region.
The Day of Asturias is a great way to experience the unique culture of the region. People from all over the world come to Asturias each year to take part in the festivities and learn more about the area. Whether you choose to join the revelry or just explore the historical streets of Spain’s most majestic region, this year’s Day of Asturias will be a day to remember.
Day of Asturias in Spain: A Comprehensive Guide and Cultural Analysis for 2023
Day of Asturias, also known as Nacional Day of Asturias, is one of the biggest holidays in Spain. It is observed on the 8th of September of every year and widely celebrated in the autonomous region of Asturias located in the north of the country. On this holiday, the people of Asturias honor the region’s patron saint, Santa María and the region’s rich culture, identity, and history. Let’s take a look at the history, significance, and traditions of Day of Asturias in Spain.
History and Origin
Day of Asturias, or Día de Asturias, as it is known in Spanish, is a holiday that celebrates the autonomous region of Asturias located in the north of Spain. Asturias became an autonomous region in 1979, gaining its own government, parliament, culture, and distinct language. Initially, Day of Asturias was celebrated on September 28th to mark the independence of Asturias in 1979, but was moved to the 8th of September in 2017 to honor the National Day of Asturias, which is also celebrated on that day, instead.
Originally, Day of Asturias was a political holiday, a celebration of independence and freedom from Spanish rule. Over the years, the holiday has evolved into a celebration of Asturias’ culture, language, and identity. It is now celebrated with parades, performances, and other festivities around the region.
Significance and Meaning
Day of Asturias has deep significance and meaning for the people of Asturias. It is a celebration of their unique culture and identity, and a reminder of how far the region has come. The holiday celebrates all that is special about the people and the region, from the distinctive Asturian language to the celebrated Asturian gastronomy and its stunning landscapes. For the many people who have emigrated from the region over the years, the holiday is a reminder of the land and culture they left behind.
Traditions and Celebrations
There are many traditional customs and celebrations that take place on Day of Asturias, both in the region of Asturias itself and elsewhere within Spain. One of the most important traditions is the “Cantata del Pueblo” or “Song of the People”, a popular song that is sung throughout the region to celebrate the culture and people of Asturias.
In the capital of Asturias, Oviedo, the official celebrations take place on the 8th of September. The day kicks off with a parade through the capital’s streets, where people gather to celebrate with music, dancing, and fireworks. The festivities end with an impressive firework display and a performance of the Cantata del Pueblo.
In addition to the traditional celebrations, in recent years, there have been many modern twists on the holiday. There are now comedy shows, concerts, and food festivals held around the region, all of which celebrate the uniqueness of Asturias and its people.
Geographical Spread
Day of Asturias is most prominently celebrated in the autonomous region of Asturias, with parades, performances, and firework displays all taking place across the region. However, the holiday is also celebrated throughout Spain, and in other places with Asturian communities.
In Madrid, for example, the holiday is celebrated with a parade and annual food festival. Throughout the day, there are performances from traditional Asturian bands, competitions, and stalls selling traditional Asturian food and drink.
In the Basque Country, the holiday is celebrated with its own distinct traditions. There is a parade followed by a traditional Basque music and dance performance. The holiday celebrations then come to a close with the singing of the Basque National Anthem.
Modern Day Observations
The celebrations of Day of Asturias have changed and evolved over the years, with many modern twists being added to the traditional festivities. There are now comedy shows, concerts, and food festivals held throughout the region, celebrating the Asturian culture and heritage in a more contemporary way.
In recent years, the holiday has also gained more international attention, with many people from other countries traveling to the region to experience the festivities first-hand. This has led to many Spanish companies taking advantage of the holiday by offering special packages and tours to travelers looking to experience the celebrations.
Interesting Facts or Trivia
• Day of Asturias is also known in Asturian as Día Nacional d’Asturies, or ‘National Day of Asturias’.
• The traditional song Cantata del Pueblo is a crucial part of the Day of Asturias celebrations. The song has been sung every year in the capital of Oviedo since 1979.
• The Asturian language is closely related to the old language of the Galicia and the Basque Country, Euskera.
• The Asturian language is commonly referred to as ‘Bable’ by the locals.
• Asturias is renowned for its spectacular nature, with many stunning landscapes, rivers, and forests.
• The traditional Asturian cuisine is renowned for its robust flavors and fresh ingredients.
• The Asturian “sidra”, or cider, is one of the region’s most famous exports.
Holiday Wishes
• Have a wonderful Day of Asturias!
• Celebrate the culture and people of Asturias!
• Join in the celebrations with family and friends!
• Take the time to appreciate the unique beauty of Asturias!
• Indulge in the amazing Asturian food and drinks!
Holiday Messages
• Let us all come together to celebrate the unique identity and culture of Asturias!
• Congratulations on the Day of Asturias! Let us celebrate with pride!
• Enjoy the festivities and take in the beauty of Asturias!
• Raise a glass to the region’s unique gastronomy and culture!
• Let us honor the patron saint of Asturias, Santa María!
Holiday Quotes
• “Asturias is inextricably bound up with my life and my memories.” – Ernest Hemingway
• “You can’t help but be in awe of the beauty of Asturias.” – Alan Titchmarsh
• “It was a magical time reliving all my favorite Asturian traditions.” – Adriana Lima
• “The best way to experience Asturias is to join the festivities of Day of Asturias!” – Anonymous
• “Celebrating Day of Asturias is about more than just the festivities, it’s a celebration of Asturias’ culture and identity.” – Anonymous
Other Popular Holiday Info
Day of Asturias also includes a traditional mass held in the region’s main church, the Basílica de Oviedo. The mass is held in honor of Asturias’ patron saint, Santa María. Afterward, there is a procession of people who carry the large golden-crowned statue of Santa María around the city. The procession is accompanied by traditional Asturian musicians and dancers.
The holiday is also celebrated in other ways, including a wide array of cultural and sporting events. Many cities and towns take part in sporting tournaments, such as football, field hockey, and tennis, and a variety of cultural events are held throughout the region.
So, on this Day of Asturias, join in the celebrations and take in the amazing culture and history of this unique region. Celebrate all that makes Asturias so special—the people, the language, the culture, the gastronomy, and the breathtaking landscapes. Let’s raise a glass to the region’s uniqueness and honor its patron saint, Santa María. Salud!
Day of Asturias in Spain Also Called
Fiesta de la Hispanidad.
FUN FACT:
In year 1980, Day of Asturias in Spain is celebrated on September 8 for the first time.HOLIDAY CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, please click here to contact us!