The Day of Extremadura evolved from a religious feast honoring the Virgin of Guadalupe (September 8) into an official regional holiday in 1985, symbolizing both the deep Catholic traditions of the land and its modern political and cultural identity.

When is Day of Extremadura?

Day of Extremadura is celebrated every year on September 8.

The following is the list of Day of Extremadura from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Day of Extremadura?

The celebration is closely tied to the Virgin of Guadalupe, who became the patron saint of Extremadura. According to tradition, a shepherd discovered a statue of the Virgin Mary by the Guadalupe River in Cáceres in the 14th century. A sanctuary was built on the site, which grew into the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe, one of Spain's most important pilgrimage centers.

For centuries, September 8 has been observed as the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, with pilgrimages, masses, and religious celebrations. This date later became the foundation for Extremadura's Regional Day.

After Spain's transition to democracy (late 1970s), the country recognized its regions through the creation of autonomous communities. Extremadura, like other regions, sought to highlight its identity and traditions.

In 1985, the Parliament of Extremadura officially declared September 8 as the Day of Extremadura, aligning the civil celebration with the long-standing religious feast.