Patron Saint Festivities of San Miguel

Description

Procession of the Saint, bullfighting events, open-air dances and a communal dinner. On the Saint's feast day, bull runs are held in the traditional style, with lead oxen guiding the bulls to make the run shorter and less dangerous. During these days, it's a pleasure to enjoy a cold drink at one of the many stalls set up around the town, since the sun isn't as strong as in August.

Regulars at the outdoor terraces begin to feel, with a touch of mock displeasure, the arrival of cooler weather and the pleasure of once again feeling a jacket or light jumper over their short sleeves as they sit chatting.

The snack offered by the town hall — usually held the day after the bullfighting events end — is another notable event, since on that day two head of cattle are roasted in the bakery's oven.

The meat is seasoned with garlic, pepper, salt, parsley and oregano, and braised with white wine, then prepared in 25 large baking trays or tins.
Once local residents themselves have distributed the trays of fighting-bull meat among the tables, set with their corresponding loaves of bread and bottles of wine, a Viking-style Andalusian feast begins without any need for a starting signal, enlivened by pasodobles from the band.

What stays etched in visitors' memory is the great warmth and friendship among those attending — whether from the town or not — while it's also striking to see the odd daring diner tackling a rib with both arms. This event is held in the town square during the August festivities, and at the municipal stall during those in September.