Competing for the Largest Acorn in Los Pedroches

The 13th edition of the Largest Acorn Wins competition returns to the picturesque region of Los Pedroches, a celebration that highlights the rich biodiversity of the Dehesa de Los Pedroches. Organized by the Centre for Business and Tourism Initiatives (CIET) Los Pedroches in collaboration with local councils, organizations, and sponsors like the Ricardo Delgado Vizcaíno Foundation and COVAP, this unique event has become a beloved tradition in Añora.

With a 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Pata Negra Ham DOP Los Pedroches as the grand prize, the event has drawn participants of all ages eager to showcase the region’s hallmark oak fruits. This year's activities promise to make the December 21 contest not only a competition but a full-fledged cultural celebration.

A Showcase of Nature and Community Spirit

The contest, dedicated to finding the largest and heaviest acorn from holm oaks (Quercus ilex), reflects the values of sustainability and respect for the Dehesa. Only unblemished acorns from holm oaks qualify, ensuring fair competition and showcasing the region's authentic natural produce.

Participants have until December 19, 2024 (noon) to submit their entries to the CIET Los Pedroches headquarters in Alcaracejos or the Los Pedroches Municipal Association. On the event day, acorns can be delivered at San Martín Park in Añora until 1:00 p.m., securely enclosed in a sealed envelope with participant details. Specialized personnel will weigh the acorns on a precision scale, and in the event of a tie in weight, the acorn with the largest volume will triumph.

A Day of Festivities in San Martín Park

December 21, the contest day, transforms San Martín Park in Añora into a vibrant hub of activity. Alongside the acorn weighing ceremony, various cultural and educational experiences are planned for visitors of all ages.

Highlights include:

1. Tasting sessions: Plazuelo cheese by Ángela Plazuelo and ham by renowned expert Antero Manuel Murillo.

2. Informative talks: María Dolores Carbonero discusses La Montanera 2024–2025, and Javier San Martín Loren explores the co-evolution of humans and acorns.

3. Guided hiking route: Discover the Dehesa through an interpreted trail emphasizing its ecological significance.

4. Children's workshop: Learn to make artisan soaps with Cosmética Pedroches, a new addition this year.

5. Interactive events for kids: Raffles, gifts, and the sixth edition of the Junior Acorn Competition Find Your Junior Acorn.

Participation in these activities requires prior registration on the official event website.

Connecting Tradition with Sustainability

The Largest Acorn Wins contest celebrates the region’s natural wealth and emphasizes the Dehesa's ecological importance. Holm oaks are central to the unique environment that sustains iconic products like the Pata Negra Ham. The event underlines the connection between the landscape, its biodiversity, and the cultural heritage of Los Pedroches.

A Culinary Prize Worth Competing For

The first prize, a 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Pata Negra Ham DOP Los Pedroches, reflects the symbiotic relationship between the Dehesa’s oaks and the region’s prized pigs. Renowned for its superior quality, this ham is a delicacy and a testament to sustainable agricultural practices. It symbolizes the event's broader mission: to promote the Dehesa's value while encouraging community participation and ecological stewardship.

Join the Celebration

The Largest Acorn Wins contest is more than a competition—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, celebrate regional traditions, and enjoy world-class culinary delights like Pata Negra Ham. Whether submitting an acorn or attending the festivities, December 21 in Añora promises a day to remember in the heart of Los Pedroches...LEARN MORE

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