The Pilar Festival ( Las Fiestas del Pilar ) is held annually in Zaragoza in honor of the Virgin Pilar, which is considered the patroness of the city and the whole of Aragon. As a rule, the festival is held in the week that falls on October 12 ( celebrations begin on the weekend before this day and end on Sunday after ).
On the eve of the festival, one of the honored guests of the city reads out from the city hall an appeal to the Aragonites, in which the region and its history are praised. As a rule, a famous actor or director is chosen for this role.
The first information about the holiday dates back to 1723. At that time, in addition to religious ceremonies, the festival's events included a buffoonade, festivities and an integral part of any Spanish celebration – bullfighting. In 1807, Pilar was recognized as an official holiday.
Since 1873, a equestrian parade has been held on this day, and since 1894 – the hot dance competition. In the 20th century, the most significant innovations in the holiday program were two traditions – Flower laying and fruit laying. And to this day, thousands of people from all over the world dressed in folk costumes go to the statue of the Virgin Mary to lay baskets of flowers and fruits at her feet.
Another festival custom – the parade of huge dolls – Gigantes y Cabezudos. Already in the Middle Ages, four dolls symbolizing parts of the world took part in the festive procession. In the mid-19th century, the number of dolls increased to eight.
In addition, during the days of the Pilar festival, another holiday – autumn « Oktoberfest » is celebrated in the parks of Zaragoza. In large tents, visitors are offered beer and a variety of snacks.