Caldereta Festival

On 10 September, Hoyo de Manzanares will honour its patron saint, the Virgin of Encina. And one of the central events will be the celebration of the Caldereta Festival. The streets of the capital will be filled with the smell of meat and bread. As always, we will be treated to more than 1,000 kilos of meat, which is then spread on a bread roll.

La Caldereta has a long history. The first records date from 1767, although it is believed that it may go back as far as the 13th century. Over time, the celebration has brought together residents, neighbours and tourists. In the capital, numerous cauldrons are heated in which a stew is prepared using lean ox meat, garlic, butter and brandy. The seasoning, made with a secret ingredient, gives it a special spiciness. Immediately after dinner, the traditional wine sprinkling and a large open-air dance take place.

The form of the festival we know today appeared in 1951. At that time, the village boys bought and cooked a young bull for their mothers, sisters, girlfriends and/or wives.