Chris Pearrow
Country fair in the sunshine
La Fiesta de La Virgen de los Mineros ("Festival of Our Lady of Miners") is the most popular summer celebration in the small town of Almadén in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain. Given the town's long history of mining (the famous mercury mines have been used since Roman times), it's natural that the local Virgin looks over the health and luck of the local miners. The festival happens in a field just outside of town and has the typical Spanish summer festival vibe: play tents for kids, several bars, grilled meats, paellas, live music, carnival games, and lots and lots of merriment.
While I'll admit that it's not the most exciting festival in Spain (it's in a small, somewhat unremarkable town after all) it is a fun time and you should definitely pay a visit if you happen to be in the area during the festivities. Everyone knows each other and the locals and friendly and welcoming. So, grab yourself a cold beer and a grilled chorizo sandwich and enjoy this country fair in the sunshine.
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