- Valdés
- Locality: Braña de Aristébanu
- Days: Last Sunday of July
- Type: Festival of Touristic Interest of the Principality of Asturias
The Vaqueira Festival, also known as "Vaqueirada," is celebrated every year on the last Sunday of July in Braña de Aristébanu, between Tineo and Valdés. It is one of the most ethnic and original festivals in all of Asturias, as it becomes a informative homage to the life and customs of the Vaqueiros de Alzada, even featuring a real wedding following Vaqueira traditions.
The Vaqueiros were and still are an ethnic and cultural group in Asturias, with ancestral origins that are still subject to research. They were transhumant shepherds who spent the summer in the brañas (high mountain pastures) with their livestock, taking advantage of the grazing areas in the mountain passes. In winter, they would return to their winter villages with their livestock and belongings.
The Vaqueiros intermarried and developed a unique culture and folklore, which has remained unchanged throughout the centuries. They primarily inhabited and still inhabit the western region of Asturias.
Attending the Vaqueira Festival is like watching an anthropology documentary, but with festivities and joy. It is a very curious, different, and lively celebration.