Bonfire of San Antón: fire, ochíos and tradition

January in Úbeda has a taste of smoke, hot olive oil and tradition that stands the test of time. When the cold weather sets in and Christmas is behind us, the city prepares for one of its most authentic and deep-rooted festivals: the celebration of San Antón. A night of fire and popular food that brings together neighbors and visitors around bonfires that illuminate the squares of the old town.

The origin of a centuries-old tradition

The festivity of San Antón, which is celebrated on January 17, is one of those festivals that connect directly with the rural world and with ancestral rituals related to the purifying fire. San Antonio Abad, patron saint of animals and protector of livestock, is venerated in many towns in Spain, but in Úbeda the celebration has a particularly festive and participatory character.

Tradition dictates that bonfires be lit in different parts of the city to chase away the cold of winter and purify the new year that has just begun. Around these bonfires, groups of friends, families and neighbors from each neighborhood gather to share food, drink and conversation.

Bonfires: the heart of the festival

During the days leading up to San Antón, piles of firewood, old furniture, pallets and branches that the neighbors are accumulating can be seen in the squares and streets of the center.

When night falls on January 16, the eve of San Antón, the bonfires are lit and the city is filled with light and heat. The crackling of the fire, the flames rising into the winter sky and the orange glow reflecting off the stone facades create a magical atmosphere that seems to be taken from another time.

Churros with chocolate: a closing with an essential flavour

If there is a gastronomic protagonist in this festival, it is the churros with chocolate after seeing the bonfires. A tradition rooted in this date as the culmination of a festival that moves the people of Úbeda and any visitor who appears.

Other delicacies of the night

In addition to the ochíos, the bonfires of San Antón are the perfect excuse to take other traditional dishes to the street. Migas con tropezones, roasted sardines, black puddings, grilled chorizo and potatoes roasted among the ashes are some of the delicacies that are shared around the fire.

It is also typical to heat spiced wine or prepare hot punch to combat the cold of the night. And of course, you can’t miss the wine doughnuts and oil cakes to accompany the conversations that last until the early hours of the morning.

Tips to enjoy San Antón

If you want to live this authentic experience, keep in mind some practical details. Wrap up warm, because although the heat of the campfires is intense, when you move a few meters away the winter cold is noticeable. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be standing or walking for a good part of the night.

And most importantly: let yourself be carried away by the atmosphere, talk to people, ask, participate. This is a festival where there are no barriers between locals and outsiders, everyone is welcome around the fire.

A celebration that resists

In an increasingly homogeneous world, where many traditions are being diluted or touristed, the bonfire of San Antón in Úbeda maintains its popular and authentic essence. It is not designed for tourism, it is a festival of and for the people of Úbeda, which makes it even more special for those who are lucky enough to experience it.

It’s one of those celebrations that remind you that the best parties don’t need big productions or organized events. Just fire, food, good company and a desire to celebrate life in the middle of winter.