The saffron rose festival in Santa Ana will celebrate its 39th edition on Saturday, 7 November, featuring a programme that blends tradition, popular culture, craftsmanship, and gastronomy centred around one of the province's most emblematic products.
José Antonio Gómez, the provincial deputy for the environment, participated in the event's presentation alongside Alberto Montesinos, director of the Folklore Group Abuela Santa Ana; Juanjo Segura, the local mayor of Santa Ana; Llanos Navarro, councillor for neighbourhoods and localities; and Ramón Sáez, delegate for agriculture, livestock, and rural development of the regional government.
During his speech, Gómez emphasised the importance of such events in promoting saffron with Denomination of Origin and showcasing the region's ethnographic and cultural heritage. He noted that the festival attracts around a thousand people each year, including visitors and participants, and highlighted saffron's potential as a driver of local economic growth and tourism.
Llanos Navarro, the councillor for neighbourhoods and localities, defended the need to support cultural activities in localities, stating that they contribute significantly to Albacete's identity. She also expressed gratitude to the Folklore Group Abuela Santa Ana for their dedication to preserving folklore.
Juan José Segura, the local mayor, announced that the 2026 Saffron Award will be posthumously awarded to Patrocinio Felipe, in recognition of her connection to the group and her lifelong commitment to agriculture.
The festival's activities will commence at 11:00 with the opening of the Craft Fair, followed by events such as saffron harvesting competitions, traditional music, and a crafts market. The day will conclude with an awards ceremony and a tasting of popular cuerva rosera, a local drink.
