Discover the Heartbeat of Martos: Festivals That Celebrate Tradition & Olive Heritage

Nestled amid the olive groves of Jaén, Martos captivates visitors with timeless traditions and lively festivals throughout the year. Whether you’re planning your stay around a festive weekend or seeking cultural immersion beyond city limits, Martos offers a rich calendar of local celebrations—each filled with warmth, history, and community spirit.

Top Festivals in Martos

1. Feria y Fiestas de San Bartolomé (Late August)

Why visit?
Martos’ grandest event spans five days (typically from August 20–24), transforming the town with lively casetas, music, bull-related festivities, and a vibrant fairground atmosphere. Expect parades, concerts, and the traditional bull running fueled by aguardiente—an unforgettable Andalusian experience

2. Vértigo Estival (July)

For two decades, this intimate, nonprofit music festival has been a summer staple. Set around Martos’ pool and gardens, Vértigo Estival blends live music—including acoustic sets and performances by bands like Triángulo de Amor Bizarro—with gastronomic tastings and cultural showcases. Ideal for a more relaxed, artsy getaway.

3. Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest in Andalusia, Martos’ Semana Santa is renowned for its moving processions, steep cobbled streets, and unique local traditions—like the haunting trumpet blast of the Juanillón echoing through the old town.

4. Fiesta de la Aceituna (Olive Festival) – December 8

Honoring the olive harvest, this beloved December festival marks the official start of the olive season. Expect cultural events, concerts, sports, a procession of the first-pressed olive oil, and the delightful hoyo aceitunero—a bag containing bread, olives, fish, and oil handed out to visitors.

5. Fiesta del Primer Aceite de Jaén – November 8–9, 2025

A new highlight on the calendar, this event brings together around 100 olive oil producers for tastings, workshops, culinary demos by top chefs, and family-friendly cultural activities. It’s a great opportunity to witness Martos’ role at the epicenter of olive oil excellence.

6. Spring & Religious Traditions

• Carnaval (February): Show-stopping costumes and local groups bring joy to the streets, culminating in the playful “Entierro de la Sardina.”

• San Juan de Dios (March 8): Religious procession honoring the beloved local patron.

• Fiesta de la Primavera (March): A youth-oriented celebration in La Lonja with concerts and workshops.

• Santa María de la Villa (Tuesday after Easter): A candlelit, devotional tradition venerating the Virgin of the Villa.

• San Amador (May 5): Celebrating Martos’ patron saint with processions and local fervor.

• Romería de la Virgen de la Victoria (Last weekend of May): Joyous pilgrimage festival featuring floral tributes and processional tradition, set against Martos’ iconic Peña backdrop.

• San Juan (June 24): Marked with outdoor parties, churritos, and communal bonfires

• Santa Marta (July 29): A vibrant night of festivities honoring the town’s patron saint.

• San Miguel (September): A traditional fair featuring produce stalls and neighborhood celebrations.