Day Of La Rioja

In the Spanish province and autonomous community of La Rioja, the 9th of June is celebrated as La Rioja Day. It is a day that commemorates the anniversary of the community when La Rioja’s Statute was approved on this day back in 1982.

Although this province is one of the least populated regions of Spain, it is known for its production of red wine thanks to its hundreds of wineries. This holiday is a public holiday in La Rioja, so it is a day off for the general public, and many businesses and government offices are closed.

It is also a day when people fly the flag of the community, attend sporting events, attend local art exhibits, and enjoy food and wine.

The History of La Rioja Day

La Rioja has been an independent province in Spain since 1833. Back then, it was known as the Province of Logroño after the capital town of the same name. In 1980, it would be renamed La Rioja as a prelude to its constitution as a provincial autonomous community two years later. Ever since it became an autonomous community in 1982, La Rioja Day has been observed.

Fun Facts About La Rioja

If you’re like most people, you don’t know a whole lot about La Rioja. After all, this small province and autonomous community only covers an area of 1,948 square kilometers and is home to about 313,000 people.

That’s why we decided that this area deserved a little bit more attention. And what better time to give it some more attention than during La Rioja Day? Below are some facts we’ve learned about it and would like to now share them with everyone.

  • During Roman times, La Rioja was inhabited by the tribes of the Vascones, Autrigones, and Berones.
  • La Rioja is bordered by the Basque Autonomous Community, Navarre, and Castile and León.
  • This area is home to more than 600 wineries. This allows it to yield over 250 million liters of wine per year.
  • The first vineyards in this region were planted by the Roman Empire.
  • Every summer in Haro, there’s an annual wine fight that brings thousands of locals and tourists to the area for a wine festival.
  • Arnedillo Biosphere Reserve and Sierra de Cebollera Nature Reserve are both in La Rioja.

Observing La Rioja Day

This is a day that’s full of many festivities across the province. This includes people flying their community flag on private homes and public buildings, painting their faces or clothes with the colors of the flag, or attending concerts and other festivities.

People also spread the word about this day using the hashtag LaRiojaDay on social media. The hashtag #LaRiojaDay can be used to spread the word about this June holiday on social media or across other Internet platforms.

Where is it celebrated?
Spain (Local holiday)
When is it?
This year (2024)
June 9 Sunday
Next year (2025)
June 9 Monday
Last year (2023)
June 9 Friday