Lorraine Williamson
Forget the cold nights and festive jumpers—New Year’s Eve in the mountain village of Bérchules comes with heat, music, and a twist of fate. Tucked away in the Alpujarras region of southern Spain, this peaceful pueblo has been ringing in the new year every August since a dramatic power cut changed everything in 1993.
That year, a blackout on December 31 left the village in total darkness. With no lights, no music, and no celebrations, locals shared grapes by torchlight in a makeshift farewell to the year. But the disappointment sparked a creative spark: why not do it all again—properly—under summer skies? Consequently, by 1994, “Nochevieja en Agosto” was born. Thirty-one years on, the tradition is stronger than ever, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
Flamenco, grapes, and Kings: A summer festival like no other
This year’s festival in Bérchules was a sensory feast. Festivities kicked off with a Three Kings parade, echoing Spain’s traditional January Epiphany celebrations but reimagined for August. The route ran from nearby Alcútar into Bérchules, accompanied by flamenco-style zambombas, children’s workshops, games, and a festive soundtrack of villancicos—Christmas carols with a southern Spanish twist.
One of the most charming customs is the “pedida del aguilando”. Children roam the streets singing door to door, collecting sweets and small gifts—much like a summery, Andalucian version of carol singing. As midnight approaches, everyone gathers to eat their twelve lucky grapes, a time-honoured Spanish tradition, this time under stars rather than fairy lights.
A museum dedicated to the magic
To mark more than three decades of midsummer revelry, the village opened a dedicated Museum of New Year’s Eve in August. The space showcases photos from past celebrations, artistic tributes, nativity scenes, and graffiti-style murals. Its launch was celebrated with a speech by local artist Raúl Moreno López ‘Nauni’, whose vibrant street art now colours corners of the village.
The people who keep the flame alive
Behind every great fiesta are the local legends who make it happen. Pilar Fernández Palomo, now 84, lovingly creates an open-air nativity scene with her own handcrafted figurines each year. José ‘Cañete’, a familiar face to villagers, has been part of the celebrations from the very beginning. Their dedication keeps the spirit of the festival not just alive, but glowing.
Why Bérchules is more than a one-night wonder
Even outside of its surreal summer New Year, Bérchules is a place worth discovering. Perched on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada, it offers rugged mountain trails, quiet charm, and a deeply rooted sense of community. Adventurous visitors can trek towards Mulhacén, the highest peak in mainland Spain, or hike to remote glacial lakes like Siete Lagunas and Laguna Hondera.
With terraced farmlands, rich culinary traditions, and locals proud of their heritage, Bérchules invites you to slow down and step into a rhythm that’s entirely its own—where time seems to pause for joy, even if just for one unforgettable summer night.
A festival born from blackout
What began with disappointment has evolved into one of Spain’s most imaginative fiestas—a heartfelt celebration that’s as much about resilience and community as it is about fun. In Bérchules, New Year’s Eve isn’t just moved to August—it’s transformed. Whether you’re drawn by the novelty, the mountain air, or the warm welcome, this Andalucian village proves that any moment can become a fresh start.
Fiestas, ferias and celebrations in Spain 2025
Sources: Turismo Berchules, Ideal.es , Granada Hoy