August has said goodbye, the pool floats are deflated, and ice creams start to eye soups with suspicion. September is here — that eternal Monday on the calendar reminding us that holidays are over. But wait! In Palencia, September is far from gloomy: it’s a celebration. A fresh start filled with local flavour, charming traditions, and that unmistakable Castilian spirit. Here, the end of summer isn’t something we mourn — it’s something we toast to (preferably with wine and a pincho).
Castilian wisdom for facing September with a grin
Castilians are masters of refranes — short sayings full of rural wisdom and dry wit. When someone says “En septiembre, el que tenga trigo que siembre”, they’re reminding you to get productive again — time to sow, literally and metaphorically. And when things get tough? Just hum a tune, as they say, “El que canta su mal espanta” — singing keeps your spirits high. The message? Life gets busy again, but don’t forget to laugh, toast, and enjoy the ride.
Tapas to forget the end of summer (or celebrate it)
Nothing says “I’m fine, really” after summer holidays like going out for tapas. In Palencia, you’ll find everything from classic bites like patatas bravas to modern tapas that look like edible art. Stroll through the old town like a true Castilian foodie: try a glass of Cigales rosé, a melting jamón croquette, and suddenly… the routine doesn’t feel so bad.
San Antolín: the festival that brings joy to September
No Castilian September is complete without the San Antolín celebrations — a weeklong fiesta of free concerts, food stalls, and cheerful chaos. In 2025, the line-up includes Iván Ferreiro, Melody, Ruslana, Walls, and more. From Parque del Salón to Plaza Mayor, Palencia comes alive with rhythm and joy. It’s the perfect reminder that coming back from holidays can still mean having a blast.
Routes with quirky names and local charm
Palencia is full of scenic walks with curious names and even more curious stories. Hike up to the Cristo del Otero viewpoint at sunset — it offers not just epic views, but also a prime selfie spot. Or wander through Monte El Viejo’s chozo routes — traditional stone huts that feel like stepping back in time. And when the urban mood strikes, Calle Mayor’s shaded arcades will lead you to a sunny terrace in no time.
Local challenges for the brave (and hungry)
Back to routine doesn’t have to mean boring. How about trying Palencia’s biggest tortilla sandwich? Or doing a tapas crawl without repeating a single dish or drink? You could even try pronouncing the tongue-twister “el chiguito corito se escolingó por el arambol” — a local expression involving a slippery child and a bannister. It may sound odd, but mastering it earns you street cred (and maybe a free drink).
Rest well between adventures: Hotel Castilla Vieja
After a day of walking, eating and celebrating — you’ll want a place to relax. Hotel Castilla Vieja is your perfect base: cosy rooms, central location, and a restaurant that respects tradition with flavour. Ideal for soaking in Palencia by day and sleeping like royalty by night.
So yes… it’s September. But Castilian September.
Don’t let back-to-work adverts fool you — here in Palencia, September is vibrant, flavourful, and full of life. It’s not about endings; it’s about reconnecting with what makes us
us
: traditions, food, humour, and a deep-rooted joy in the everyday. Come and live September the Castilian way — you’ll never see “back to routine” the same way again.