Second week of August · Friday to Sunday
Free admission to most events · check official programme
Castle of the 300 Towers and adjacent historic quarter
Ajuntament d'Onda
A real castle as the backdrop
Most medieval fairs in the Valencian Community are set up in adapted squares or venues. Onda's is different: the main stage is the Castle of the 300 Towers, a 10th-century Arab fortress, with numerous later additions, that dominates the city from the hilltop and which, for three days every August, opens its esplanades and towers to knights, artisans and visitors alike.
What makes it unique
The only medieval fair in the entire province of Castellón held inside and around a real castle.
The contrast between the original architecture and the fair's elements (banners, wooden stalls, torches, horses) makes for particularly striking photography. This is not a set built for the occasion: it is a genuine castle with eight centuries of history, which lends the experience a layer of authenticity hard to find at events of similar scale.
Programme: three August days
The fair unfolds over three days with a rhythm that builds in intensity. Friday opens the grounds and sets the atmosphere; Saturday concentrates the densest programme; Sunday closes with the most spectacular events.
Castle opening ceremonies, period costume display, inaugural procession and the first equestrian exhibition. After dark, fire shows and live music.
Cavalry processions, medieval court display, artistic dressage and performances throughout the historic quarter. The medieval market in full swing, with craft workshops and live demonstrations.
Jousting tournament on horseback as the centrepiece of the afternoon. Torchlit procession of riders at dusk and a grand fire show to close the edition.
The market: period crafts and food
Running alongside the shows, the medieval market occupies the streets around the castle with dozens of stalls organised in the spirit of traditional trades: woodwork, wrought iron, leather, natural textiles. Artisans work in full view, turning a stroll between stalls into a continuous demonstration of traditional techniques.
The food offer includes breads and pastries from wood-fired ovens, grilled meats, cheeses, cured meats and warm drinks, with themed stalls that maintain the aesthetic coherence of the whole event. It is the most relaxed and family-friendly space at the fair, ideal for a break between shows.
Visit tips
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01
Arrive early for Sunday's tournament. The jousting is the most popular event and space near the track is limited. Half an hour before is usually enough to get a good spot.
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02
Combine with a castle visit. The Castle Museum is inside the grounds. According to the Town Council's price table, admission to the castle is free during the Medieval Fair (see the prices for the rest of the year). Use the fair as a reason to see the permanent collection, which usually has far fewer visitors than the outdoor events.
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03
Comfortable footwear with a firm sole. Reaching the castle involves a climb along a dirt path and uneven cobbled areas. Thin sandals or heeled shoes are a poor choice inside the castle grounds.
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04
Friday is the quietest day. If you want to explore the market and grounds without crowds, Friday afternoon is the best time. Saturday sees the highest visitor numbers.
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05
Book accommodation early. The fair falls in the second week of August, peak season. The Gran Hotel Toledo and Hotel Mola are the main options within the town.
Video: Medieval Fair of Onda · Channel Ajuntament d'Onda. Source: Onda Town Council.