The Exaltation of the Coming of the Virgin of the Rocío by Carlos Herrera, live: follow it live from the Almonte Shrine

On August 5, 2026, at 8:35 p.m., Spanish media outlet ABC de Sevilla announced that journalist Carlos Herrera will deliver the Pregón during the Exaltación de la Venida de la Virgen del Rocío, live-streamed from the Sanctuary of Almonte. The event begins at 9:00 p.m. and will be broadcast via 7TV, allowing viewers to follow each detail of the ceremony in real time. The Exaltación takes place at the Sanctuary of the Blanca Paloma in Almonte, marking the official start of a religious and cultural celebration deeply rooted in local tradition. The Exaltación serves as a prelude to the highly anticipated Traslado, the annual procession of the Virgin of Rocío, scheduled for August 19 and 20. This year’s journey will cover approximately 15 kilometers along the Camino de los Llanos y Los Taranjales. The Virgin, covered in her traditional protective cloak, will be carried on the shoulders of townspeople through the night. While exact departure and arrival times have not been officially set, the procession is expected to reach the temple of El Chaparral with the first rays of dawn. There, the camaristas, a group of women responsible for maintaining the image, will remove the cloak and the cloth of Pastora, allowing the Virgin to begin her triumphant procession through the decorated streets of Almonte to the Church of the Assumption, where she will remain for nine months until the 2027 Romería. This year's Exaltación holds particular significance due to its unique timing. It has been just five years since the last return of the patron saint of Almonte to her village, breaking from the usual seven-year cycle. The disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic led to the postponement of previous processions, altering the traditional schedule and shortening the wait for this cherished event. The return of the Virgin after such a brief interval underscores the resilience of the community and their devotion to the sacred traditions they uphold. Almonte, a town located in the province of Huelva, is known for its deep connection to the Virgin of Rocío, one of the most revered Marian images in Spain. The Romería festival, which includes the Traslado, attracts thousands of pilgrims annually and plays a central role in the town’s identity. The Exaltación itself is a solemn yet celebratory moment, where the Virgin is formally welcomed back to the sanctuary, symbolizing renewal and continuity within the faith-based calendar. Carlos Herrera, a well-known Spanish journalist and television presenter, has taken on the role of delivering the Pregón, a speech that sets the tone for the festivities. His involvement adds a layer of public interest and media attention to the event, drawing both locals and visitors eager to witness the spectacle. The Pregón is traditionally delivered by a respected figure in the community, often someone who embodies the values and history of the region. The Traslado is more than a religious observance, it is a communal experience that brings together generations of residents. The 15-kilometer journey, though physically demanding, is undertaken with great reverence, reflecting the deep spiritual commitment of the participants. The Virgin’s absence over the past five years has created anticipation, making this year’s return all the more meaningful. As the evening approaches, preparations are underway in Almonte. Streets are being adorned, and the faithful gather in anticipation of the Exaltación. The coming days will see the culmination of months of preparation, culminating in the Traslado that will take place later in August. For the people of Almonte, these events are not merely festivals, they are acts of faith, memory, and collective identity.