May 13, 2026, 8:03 am | Read time: 3 minutes
In northern Spain, a unique ritual draws attention every year during Corpus Christi: Men leap over babies lying on mattresses. An unusual spectacle that amazes many. TRAVELBOOK explains the story behind the El Colacho festival.
Every year on the Sunday after Corpus Christi, the northern Spanish village of Castrillo de Murcia attracts numerous visitors. The reason is a ritual known as the “Devil’s Jump” or “Baby Jumping,” which thrills many. The highlight: Men in costumes jump over babies.
The Meaning of El Colacho
The tradition dates back to the 1620s. El Colacho is organized by the Brotherhood of Santísimo Sacramento de Minerva. During the festival, the so-called “Colachos,” men dressed as devils in red and yellow costumes, parade through the streets. With horsehair whips and loud shouts, they playfully chase children through the alleys, accompanied by insults and curses.
They repeatedly retreat, only to rush through the streets again, startling the villagers. In the early evening, the black-clad “Atabalero” appear, often accompanied by drums meant to drive away the devil.
The Spectacular Highlight of the Festival
Then comes the most thrilling moment: The “Colachos” take a running start and leap over the babies lying on mattresses on the ground. The jump has a clear symbolic meaning. According to old beliefs, it is considered a form of baptism for the children born in the previous year, according to National Geographic.
With the jump, the disguised “Colachos” are believed to take away the babies’ original sins and protect them from misfortune and illness. Priests then bless the infants and sprinkle them with rose petals. Officially, the ritual is not part of Catholic doctrine and is not supported by the church, but it has been practiced for centuries during Corpus Christi celebrations.
Baby Jumping is just one part of the larger festival. Around Corpus Christi, Castrillo de Murcia celebrates for several days. The streets fill up in the morning, wine is served, houses are decorated, and music is heard everywhere. Many travel specifically for the festival to the community near Burgos.
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Tradition with Safety Precautions
Despite the lively activity and seemingly daring jumps, the festival, which has been held for more than 400 years, proceeds safely. According to media reports and statements from locals, there have been no accidents or injuries, partly because the jumps are intensively practiced beforehand. This year, the Devil’s Jump takes place on June 7, 2026.
Located on the Camino de Santiago
By the way, Castrillo de Murcia is situated on the Camino Frances, one of the most famous routes of the Camino de Santiago. With some planning, the pilgrimage route can be arranged to coincide with the El Colacho festival.