Origin & history
The Day of Aragón, celebrated on April 23, marks the anniversary of the legendary founding of the Kingdom of Aragón in 802 AD by Count Aznar Galíndez. This date also coincides with the feast of Saint George (San Jorge), the patron saint of Aragón, who is honored for his legendary dragon-slaying feat. In 1984, the Government of Aragón officially declared April 23 as the Day of Aragón to promote regional identity and heritage.
Customs & traditions
On the Day of Aragón, official ceremonies are held at the Aljafería Palace in Zaragoza, the seat of the Aragonese parliament. The day features cultural events such as traditional music concerts, dance performances (jota aragonesa), and folkloric parades. People also participate in activities like open-air markets selling local crafts and gastronomy, including regional specialties like ternasco (roasted lamb) and borraja (borage). Many towns hold medieval fairs, reenactments, and sporting events, while schools organize educational activities about Aragonese history.
Why it is celebrated
The Day of Aragón is a celebration of the region's unique identity, history, and cultural heritage. It fosters a sense of pride and unity among Aragonese people, highlighting their language, traditions, and historical contributions to Spain. The holiday also serves as a reminder of Aragón's medieval past as a powerful kingdom that played a key role in the Reconquista and the unification of Spain.