Hi there! I’m Aima, Product Specialist & Marketing Executive at Follow the Camino. This summer, I had the joy of walking parts of the Camino de Santiago with my amazing colleague Angie, who leads our Reservations Team.
Together, we wandered through the heart of Galicia, soaking up its lively local culture and stumbling upon some truly unforgettable festivals. We laughed, danced, sang, and shared stories with locals and fellow pilgrims alike. It was a beautiful reminder of how the Camino isn’t just about the walk, it’s also about the joy, connection, and surprises along the way!
Over the past few months, we’ve had the chance to attend some truly special events and celebrations — and in this post, we’re sharing a few of our favorites.
Of course, this is just a small selection. Galicia is bursting with life all year round, and there are countless other festivals we could mention — like the legendary Viking Pilgrimage of Catoira, the International Folk Festival of Ortigueira, or the emotional and vibrant Apostle Week in Santiago de Compostela.
Here are a few of our favourite moments. We hope they spark some inspiration for your own Camino adventure!
Arde Lucus – Lugo (Camino Primitivo) – June
In mid-June, the city of Lugo turns back the clock and becomes Lucus Augusti once again: a vibrant celebration where Roman legions and Celtic ‘castreños’ take over the streets, so I couldn’t resist joining in! Dressed as Roman and warrior women, we cheered on gladiator battles, strolled through ancient markets, and feasted beneath Lugo’s incredible Roman walls.
But the real magic? It wasn’t just in the costumes or the shows. It was in the little, unexpected moments. Locals took the time to teach us traditional Galician songs, and we danced the ‘muiñeira’ (that joyful, spinning Galician folk dance) hand in hand with complete strangers right there in the square. The music swept through the streets, and suddenly we were all singing together: locals, Spaniards, foreigners, pilgrims… everyone caught up in the same rhythm and joy. We weren’t just watching the festival, we were living it. Part of it. And it’s a feeling we’ll never forget.
It was pure magic. Honestly, Arde Lucus has become one of our all-time favourite celebrations. And yes, we’re already dreaming of going back next year!
Night of San Xoan – A Coruña (Camino Inglés) – June 23th
On Midsummer’s Eve, A Coruña’s beaches come alive with fire, music, and magic. The whole city seems to spill out onto the Paseo Maritimo: families, friends, couples, tourists… everyone walking together by the sea as the sun goes down. There’s music, kids running around, and the smell of ‘sardiñada’ (grilled sardines) drifting through the air, blending with the smoky scent of firewood.
It’s a night about cleansing and renewal: fire to burn away the old, and water to start fresh. We joined the crowds jumping over little bonfires, laughing and tasting ‘queimada’ (traditional Galician flaming punch made to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck) as the ritual spell was chanted, feeling that powerful mix of maritime and Celtic energy all around us.
At midnight, everyone gathered around a giant ‘falla’ (an artistic sculpture made of wood and papier-mâché) on the beach. Each year it’s something different, always representing something meaningful to the city. When they set it on fire, it became this breathtaking bonfire, lighting up the beach as everyone watched in awe.
And then came the fireworks. Right at midnight, on June 24th, the Day of Saint John, who was the city’s patron until 1589. The sky burst into colour above the ocean. Music, clapping, people cheering and hugging… it was electric. The flames may die down, but the feeling lingers. One of those nights to remember.
Feira Franca Medieval – Betanzos (Camino Inglés) – July
On the second weekend of July, Betanzos takes a magical step back into the 15th century with its medieval fair. It might be smaller than Lugo’s, but it’s just as exciting (especially if, like us, you’re not used to seeing traditions so alive and present).
The whole town transforms. Narrow cobbled streets fill with artisans, knights, Celtic musicians, and actors bringing history to life. We spent hours wandering through around 130 stalls, tasting local sweets, handmade goods, and just soaking in that festive, old-world vibe. You can truly feel how proud the town is of its past. This time, we didn’t dress up… but we couldn’t resist slipping on flower crowns. The energy was that contagious!
And if you go, here’s a very important tip: you have to try the ‘tortilla’. It’s famous in Betanzos for being super runny. Some people love it, some… not so much. We enjoyed it, especially because they gave us plenty of bread to soak it all up! Oh, and tortilla isn’t a casual topic here: every year, they crown the best one in town. Locals take it seriously, so maybe don’t start a tortilla debate unless you’re ready for a passionate discussion!
Our Reflection
These experiences reminded us that Galicia isn’t just a place you walk through – it’s something you feel. It’s alive in its music, its traditions, its people. We didn’t just observe these festivals, we became part of them! We laughed in ancient streets, danced in town squares, and shared queimada by the fire.
Each celebration brought its own colors, sounds, and moments of unexpected connection. They surprised us, moved us, and can make your Camino even more special. So… which one speaks to you?
Planning for 2026?
We’re already taking bookings for 2026 (and if you’re dreaming of aligning your Camino with one of these unforgettable celebrations, we’d love to make it happen). Our team can help you tailor your Camino to an even deeper level, combining your chosen route with the music, traditions, and vibrant energy of Galicia’s festivals for a truly immersive experience.
Some festival dates are already set, while others are announced closer to the time, because Galicia is full of lively, unexpected celebrations all year round.
So tell us: which celebration caught your eye? And on which Camino would you love to experience it? We’d love to hear your ideas, because your Camino should feel as unique, vibrant, and memorable as the moments you’ll carry home.
