Pendón Day
Every 26 December Almería hangs the Pendón banner from the Town Hall balcony to remember the Catholic Monarchs' entry into the city in 1489.
When
Next: Saturday, December 26, 2026.
On 26 December.
Last time: Friday, December 26, 2025.
What it is
Pendón Day commemorates the handover of Almería to the Catholic Monarchs on 26 December 1489, after the surrender of El Zagal, and the city's incorporation into the Crown of Castile. The central figure is the Pendón, the banner that recalls the entry of the Christian troops into the city.
It is an official City Council ceremony, presided over by the mayor, with the city councillors and civil, military and religious authorities. It falls on St Stephen's Day.
Where
In the Plaza de la Constitución, known as Plaza Vieja, in front of the Town Hall, and at the Cathedral. The procession goes between them through the streets of the historic centre.
Customs and traditions
Early in the morning the Pendón is placed on the main balcony of the Town Hall. Then the mayor asks the councillor who carries it to swear an oath three times, the banner is lowered from the balcony while the national anthem plays, and the procession heads to the Cathedral for a solemn Mass presided over by the bishop.
Back in Plaza Vieja, the Pendón is waved three times to cheers for Spain, Andalusia, the Catholic Monarchs and the integration of peoples. In recent years members of the Spanish Legion have taken part and salvoes have been fired.
FAQ
What is celebrated on Pendón Day?
The handover of Almería to the Catholic Monarchs on 26 December 1489 and its incorporation into the Crown of Castile.
Where does it take place?
In Plaza Vieja (Plaza de la Constitución), in front of the Town Hall, and at the Cathedral, with a procession through the historic centre.
What is the waving of the Pendón?
The gesture of waving the banner three times in Plaza Vieja, amid cheers, which ends the ceremony.