Estepona’s saint’s day – San Isidro Labrador – is celebrated on 15th May however the celebrations start almost 2 weeks earlier on Sunday 4th May with the Romeria (pilgrimage).
San Isidro Labrador, who incidentally is also Madrid’s patron, was a farm worker and many of the celebrations and festivities regognise the farming industry.
The Romeria starts with a pilgramage through the streets of Estepona, with the Saint’s statue. Hundreds of people follow this parade through to Las Pedregales park where there is a tiny chapel (Ermita San Isidro). It is here that the religious part of the festival takes place but, to be honest, more emphasis is put on having a great party and picnics with family and friends.
The whole day ( and most of the night!) is spent in the park – there is plenty of food and the drinks flow…. There is also entertainment, live music and plenty of dancing.
A great experience!!