Traditional religious festivities held in Caltojar and Bilbao

Various Spanish towns have held traditional religious festivities. In Caltojar, residents celebrated the patron saint, Virgen del Pilar, with a unique procession. A key element of the ritual involves performing the jota dance with backs turned to the image, a tradition intended to ‘not lose face to the town’s patron.’ The event included bagpipe music and an auction of the litter poles.

In Bilbao, thousands participated in the Romería de Begoña to honor the Amatxu de Begoña. The procession traveled from Plaza Arriaga through the Casco Viejo to the basilica, accompanied by traditional music and dances. Itziar Urtasun served as the Honor Pilgrim for the 2026 festivities.