The Fiesta del Colacho: Spain’s Most Unusual Baby-Jumping Festival

In the small village of Castrillo de Murcia, Burgos, one of Spain’s most unique and surreal festivals takes place every June: La Fiesta del Colacho. This centuries-old tradition, also known as the Baby-Jumping Festival, blends Catholic and pagan elements in a spectacle that leaves visitors both amazed and intrigued.

A Leap Over Innocence

The highlight of the festival is the El Colacho—a character dressed in a bright yellow and red costume, representing the devil. As part of the ritual, newborn babies, born within the past year, are laid on mattresses in the street. To the astonishment of onlookers, the Colacho leaps over them in a symbolic act meant to cleanse the infants of original sin and protect them from evil spirits.

A Tradition Rooted in History

Dating back to at least the 17th century, this festival is believed to have originated as part of the Corpus Christi celebrations. While its exact origins remain unclear, the tradition has been passed down through generations and continues to be a central part of the village’s cultural identity.

More Than Just Jumping

Although the baby-jumping spectacle is the most famous part, the festival also includes religious processions, drumming, and festive gatherings throughout the village. The Brotherhood of the Santísimo Sacramento, responsible for organizing the event, ensures that tradition is upheld while maintaining a joyful and safe atmosphere.

A Festival Unlike Any Other

La Fiesta del Colacho is one of the most distinctive and debated traditions in Spain. While it may seem unusual to outsiders, for the people of Castrillo de Murcia, it remains a cherished celebration of faith, heritage, and community. Visitors looking for a truly unique cultural experience will find no other festival quite like it.