International Descent of the Sella 2026: Complete Guide to the Fiesta de las Piraguas
📅 The International Descent of the Sella 2026 will once again be held on the first Saturday of August, as every year, in the most iconic canoeing event in Asturias — in this case, on August 8, 2026.
The International Descent of the Sella will celebrate its 88th edition in 2026.
This guide will be updated over the coming months as the official schedule and program of the Fiesta de las Piraguas are confirmed.
In the meantime, you can explore the route, watch videos from previous editions, and discover the full history of this unique event that every summer brings together sport, tradition, and tourism on the Sella River.
When will the International Descent of the Sella 2026 take place?
As tradition dictates, the International Descent of the Sella 2026 will be held on August 8, 2026. The event brings together hundreds of canoeists from around the world for a spectacular river course.
Official Schedule and Program for the 2026 Festival
The final schedule will be announced in the coming months, but traditionally the official start takes place at 12:00 noon from the Arriondas bridge, accompanied by the traditional Asturian anthem and the opening cannon shots.
Throughout the day, Arriondas and Ribadesella will experience the great celebration of canoeing and Asturian culture.
Route from Arriondas to Ribadesella
The official route of the International Descent of the Sella covers an approximate distance of 20 kilometers along the Sella River, starting at the Arriondas bridge and finishing at the Ribadesella bridge, at the entrance to the estuary.
Along the way, canoeists pass through some of the river’s most famous spots: La Remolina, Picu la Vieya, Pozo del Arco, and Rabión del Diablu, among others.
Where to Watch the 2026 Descent Live
The race will be broadcast live on television (TPA – Televisión del Principado de Asturias, RTVE Play) and also through various online platforms and YouTube channels.
In addition, thousands of spectators will watch the event live from the riverbanks along the entire route, especially in Arriondas, Toraño, and Ribadesella.
Tips for Attending the 2026 Descent
- Arrive early: large crowds gather from the early morning hours.
- Plan your parking: special parking areas are usually set up in Arriondas and Ribadesella.
- Stay hydrated and use sun protection: it’s the height of summer, and temperatures can be high.
- River train: there is a special river train service that runs parallel to the river during the race. > See River Train info
History of the Fiesta de las Piraguas
The International Descent of the Sella is a historic race held since 1930, and is one of the most important sporting and festive events in Asturias and Spain.
Declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest, it combines sport, nature, music, gastronomy, and Asturian hospitality, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world each year.
>See full history of the International Descent of the Sella
🎥 Videos of the International Descent of the Sella
Below you can enjoy some of our exclusive videos:
- Aerial view of the start
- Anthem of Asturias
- Allume Sellero
- Visual tour through the sections of the river
- Official Start of the 2025 Descent
📸 Photos of the International Descent of the Sella
Below you can enjoy our exclusive galleries captured on the Sella River:
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the International Descent of the Sella 2026 held? It will take place on August 8, 2026.
Where does the Descent of the Sella start and finish? From Arriondas to Ribadesella, covering 20 km along the Sella River.
Can the 2026 Descent be watched live? Yes, it is usually broadcast by TPA, RTVE Play, YouTube, and official channels.
How many participants compete in the International Descent? Every year, hundreds of paddlers from different countries take part.
