Day of Asturias

The **Day of Asturias** (Día de Asturias) is a regional public holiday celebrated annually on **September 8th** in the autonomous community of Asturias, Spain. This day honors the cultural heritage, traditions, and identity of Asturias, a region known for its lush landscapes, Celtic roots, and rich history. The holiday coincides with the feast of the **Virgin of Covadonga**, the patron saint of Asturias, who is deeply revered in the region. According to legend, the Virgin played a pivotal role in the Battle of Covadonga in 722 AD, which marked the beginning of the Christian Reconquista of Spain. Celebrations typically include religious processions, traditional music, folk dances, and regional gastronomy, with events often centered around the **Sanctuary of Covadonga** in the Picos de Europa mountains. Locals and visitors alike enjoy Asturian bagpipe performances (gaitas), traditional attire, and dishes like fabada (bean stew) and cider. The Day of Asturias is a time for Asturians to celebrate their unique culture, history, and pride in their region.