Tarazona’s most recognizable tradition is just around the corner. The Cipotegato 2026 will be held this Thursday at 12:00 p.m. to the delirium of the thousands of Turiasonenses who will take to the streets ready to «bathe» this mythical character in tomatoes. The event will start when the protagonist of this edition goes out to meet the neighbors to complete one of the most famous «races» in all of Aragon.
ANCIENT TRADITION
The origin of the Cipotegato de Tarazona dates back to an ancient tradition linked to the festivities in honour of San Atilano. Although there are different theories about the birth of the figure, the one that has most penetrated among Turiasonense society is that of relating the Cipotegato with a prisoner who tried to get his freedom by escaping from the neighbors who tried to prevent him from doing so in the streets of the municipality.
The race and the throwing of tomatoes today form the nucleus of a celebration declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest, in which the Cipotegato, dressed in his characteristic costume and covered by a mask, must complete the route until returning to the Plaza de España. This year’s protagonist will be a 49-year-old from Turiason, who has had to wait no less than 25 years to be elected.
ROUTE OF THE CIPOTEGATO 2026
This year’s route has been designed by Cipotegato himself and will have a markedly monumental character. After leaving the Town Hall, it will advance along Calle Mayor and continue along Calle El Conde until it reaches the Arco de Palacio. From there it will go down Los Recodos to Fueros de Aragón and cross the bridge of the Virgen del Río in the direction of the Old Bullring. At this point it will make a stop at the bar «S’ha Feito» before resuming the race through the access arch to Prado Street.
The race will continue through Laurales, the Cathedral and Calle Iglesia, and then go down the stairs of San Francisco and along the Paseo de la Constitución. In the final part, the Cipotegato will cross the bridge of the Cathedral and go up Marrodán Street until returning to the Plaza de España. It will be there where the race ends and the identity of the protagonist is finally revealed.
MORE ACTIVITIES FOR THIS THURSDAY
The Cipotegato will be the central act of this Thursday, but it will not be the only activity offered on the first day of the Festivities in honor of San Atilano.
6.30 p.m. In Plaza de España, XXXV imposition of the festival handkerchief to the monument of the Cipotegato, by the Peña Dominguera.
7:00 p.m. In Plaza de España, «Playing with the Cipotegato», children’s entertainment suitable for children up to 7 years old.
7.30 p.m. In Carrera Zaragoza, afternoon musical session dancing with the Cipotegato, by the «Jaguar» orchestra.
00.00 hours. In Carrera Zaragoza, performance by the «Jaguar» orchestra.
