San Roque Festivities

The cry of "Long live San Roque and Perru!" is unmistakable and identifies that the San Roque Festivities in Llanes have begun and they are here to stay with different events throughout the month of August, although the Grand Day is on the 16th of this month. The Everlasting Flower is the emblem of the San Roque faction since the late 19th century and continues to fill the town of Llanes with fragrance and celebration during these festivities.

The Pilgrim Dance, the bagpipe bands festival, and the open-air dances in Vega de la Portilla are traditions forever associated with San Roque of Llanes. It is a festival as genuine as it is ancient, with roots dating back to the 13th century, linked to the Coastal Camino de Santiago and the Pilgrims' Hospice that the town had. Tradition tells us that the pilgrimages in honor of San Roque were a way for the people of Llanes to show hospitality and welcome to the countless Jacobean pilgrims who made a stop in the town.

Over time, new elements have been added to the rituals, and different activities have been incorporated, but not a trace of the essence of the San Roque spirit has been erased. This essence is based on welcoming strangers without distinction of social classes and devotion to San Roque. In short, it is a true classic among the traditions of Llanes and Asturias.

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