National Harvest Festival, Mendocine tradition!

Mendoza has many popular celebrations of importance. However, the most famous –even internationally– is the National Harvest Festival. A traditional event of the province that seeks to highlight the efforts of the winemakers, those men who, in their daily work, transform the grape into exquisite wines.

The festivities were officially born in 1936, after a decree was signed by the Minister of Industries and Public Works at that time, Engineer Frank Romero Day, who decided to declare the traditional harvest as a “national festival”. Since then, this date is celebrated on the first Saturday of each march.

The event that has transcended borders is an essential part of the Mendocinos who, year after year, strive to provide a better version of the National Harvest Festival. In this sense, it is one of the must-see activities for those who visit the province during this time. It is part of Argentine folklore!

But what is it? Beyond bringing together all the winemakers and workers of the vine, with locals and strangers, the festival is characterized by 4 specific activities and, of course, specials ones. Let’s see below!

THE BLESSING OF THE FRUITS OPENS THE HOLIDAY

The National Harvest Festival consists of 4 main events. The first is the “Blessing of the Fruits”. Peasants thank the Saints for the good harvests. It is a symbolic representation of that time when they thanked for the first harvests. Today, the event is celebrated under the image of Our Lady of the Carrodilla inside each winery.

The second outstanding activity of the festival is the White Way of the Queens. It consists of a parade of luminous tanks (so it is done when the sun begins to hide) that move to what will be the outgoing Queen and the new aspirants, including those who were departmental participants and some elected in other national competitions. During the tour, the friendly girls throw symbolic products and fruits such as, of course, the grape.

After this comes the “Carousel”, an important part of the National Harvest Festival. The village and its visitors now concentrate along the streets to revel in the carriage parade. Each with its queen on board and a special touch in its decoration. Every year it has a new theme, so both floats and participants dress up in exotic costumes.

The closure is staged by the Greek frank Romero Day theatre. It is the central event, with the presentation of more than a thousand dancers. In the midst of dance and other artistic performances, music and play of lights, gives way to the election and coronation of the National Queen of the Harvest. Fireworks aren’t scarce from Cerro de la Gloria.

Ready to know the winemaking process, wineries and vineyards in the middle of the best show? Contact our specialists in traveler assistance and live the National Harvest Festival. Not only will you enjoy, but you will be part of a tradition that was born by virtue of highlighting the work of the Mendoza winemakers and the vine soil of the province. Likewise, we invite you to consult the best 10 wine cellars in this place.