There are plenty of ways to tell that the San Mateo 2026 festivities have already begun in Logroño. Brass bands in the streets, groups of friends coming and going, a buzz wherever you look and, of course, wine. Lots of wine. But if you are the kind of person who needs official confirmation, the definitive sign will come on Saturday 19 September at 12 noon, when the Cohete is launched from Plaza del Ayuntamiento, marking the start of seven days of celebrations. Until 25 September, the Rioja Grape Harvest Festival will fill the city with concerts, tastings and centuries-old traditions.

Although the festivities are held in honour of Saint Matthew, they are also known as the Rioja Grape Harvest Festival, as they coincide with the grape harvest. Their history goes back a long way. In fact, this year marks their 69th anniversary. That is why tradition takes centre stage throughout these days.

There are two moments when the connection between celebration, land and wine becomes especially clear: the grape treading and the offering of the first must to the Virgin of Valvanera, patron saint of La Rioja. It will take place on Monday 21 September at 12 noon, on Paseo del Espolón. And yes, make sure you save the time, because it is well worth seeing how the grapes are traditionally trodden to produce the first juice of the harvest, which is then offered to the Virgin. A simple ritual, full of symbolism and perfect for understanding why here, talking about wine also means talking about identity.

If that leaves you wanting to have a go yourself, on the 23rd, at Plaza del Ayuntamiento (8 pm), the Intergenerational Popular Grape Treading will take place, designed to make sure this tradition is not just a ceremony, but something everyone can share.

You should arrive at San Mateo hungry. The local peñas and associations make it almost impossible to wander around Logroño without coming across one of their food tastings. Preñaos, zapatillas, mushrooms, Rioja-style stew, cured meats, torreznos… We will not say the list is endless, but it comes close. You can see the full programme in the official schedule.

And there is more: the festivities also include Gastronomy Week. In other words, even more tastings. This time they will take place in Plaza del Mercado, with dishes such as mussels with Rioja-style tomato and pepper sauce, duck confit with raisin and Rioja reduction, pork loin with peppers and seasoned minced meat… We doubt you will still be hungry afterwards, but if you are, you are in the city of Calle Laurel, where the hours slip by from one tapa to the next.

Pop, rock, cover bands, DJs, local acts... There is no doubt that music is one of the highlights of the San Mateo festivities in Logroño 2026. And there will be something for every taste. From Efecto Pasillo (20 September) to Ángel Stanicht (24), as well as La Fuga (19), Pancho Varona (21), Maldita Nerea (21) and tribute acts celebrating bands such as La Oreja de Van Gogh (22).

There will also be plenty of time for some good old-fashioned dancing. A number of orchestras will provide the soundtrack, including one name you may already be looking out for: París de Noia. And yes, we can confirm they will be performing. When? On Wednesday 23 at 11 pm in Parque de La Ribera.

It is not difficult to find something to do in Logroño during San Mateo. Just head outside and see where the day takes you. Giants and Big Heads parades, hand pelota tournaments, puppet shows, workshops, inflatables and children's activities; plus the peñas opening their chamizos to visitors. When you go in, there is a good chance you will be offered zurracapote. Say yes: you will want to raise a glass to everything you are experiencing with this drink made from wine, fruit, sugar and spices.

And why wouldn't you, when, alongside the carefree atmosphere of a week-long celebration, Logroño itself provides the backdrop? The Concatedral de La Redonda, Plaza del Mercado, Calle Portales… If they are appealing at any time of year, during San Mateo they are even more so. And if at any point you feel like slowing things down, get in the car and head along the roads of the Rioja D.O.Ca., through vineyards and wineries, to discover another way of experiencing the region's wine tradition.

Just as everyone finds something to enjoy during Logroño's September festivities, every type of traveller can also find what they are looking for at our hotels in the city. It does not matter whether you choose Sercotel Calle Mayor, Sercotel Portales, Sercotel Murrieta or Sercotel Logroño Suites. Nor whether you are travelling with friends, family or your partner. Here, you will find rooms designed for a restful stay, buffet breakfasts to help you start the day on the right foot, and a range of services to make your stay even more comfortable: parking, late check-out, 24-hour reception, pillow menu… We take your comfort very seriously, especially when the reason bringing you to our city is to experience our festivities.