“Hi, I’m visiting Spain soon and I’d love to experience some of the country’s famous festivals and celebrations. I’ve heard about La Tomatina and Running of the Bulls, but what other major festivals should I know about? Are there any that are especially fun to participate in or watch? Thanks!”
Spain is famous for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which reflect the country’s rich culture, history, and regional diversity. Throughout the year, Spaniards celebrate everything from traditional religious holidays to lively street parties. Here’s a guide to some of the most famous festivals you should consider experiencing during your visit.
1. La Tomatina (Buñol) – Last Wednesday of August
La Tomatina is probably Spain’s most famous festival, known for its massive tomato fight in the small town of Buñol, near Valencia. Every year, thousands of people from around the world gather to throw ripe tomatoes at each other in a friendly but chaotic battle. The festival lasts for about an hour, and once it’s over, the streets are washed down with fire trucks. It’s an incredibly fun and messy experience—but make sure to wear old clothes and goggles to protect your eyes!
2. Running of the Bulls (San Fermín) – Pamplona – July 6-14
San Fermín, held in Pamplona, is one of the most famous festivals in the world, known for the Running of the Bulls. During this event, brave participants run in front of a group of bulls through the narrow streets of Pamplona. The festival lasts for a week, with the bull run happening every morning. In addition to the bull run, there are parades, fireworks, and plenty of traditional music and dancing. It’s a thrilling yet dangerous event, so it’s not for everyone, but definitely worth experiencing as a spectator.
3. Feria de Abril (Seville) – April
The Feria de Abril in Seville is one of the most colorful and lively celebrations in Spain. This spring fair lasts for a week and is filled with flamenco dancing, horse parades, traditional costumes, and delicious food and drinks. People gather in casetas (private tents) to enjoy music, food, and drinks with friends and family. Seville’s Feria de Abril is a perfect place to experience the flamenco culture and see locals dressed in flamenco dresses and traditional outfits.
4. Las Fallas (Valencia) – March 15-19
Las Fallas is a spectacular celebration in Valencia that involves fireworks, parades, and the creation and burning of large, colorful sculptures known as “**fallas.” These intricate statues often represent satirical or political themes. The festival culminates on March 19, when the fallas are burned in massive bonfires in celebration of Saint Joseph’s Day. The fireworks displays and street parties make Las Fallas one of the most exciting festivals to attend.
5. Semana Santa (Holy Week) – March/April
Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is one of the most important religious celebrations in Spain, observed across the country, but most notably in Seville, Málaga, and Zamora. The festival marks the lead-up to Easter and includes processions, where religious brotherhoods carry religious statues through the streets, accompanied by music, chanting, and candles. The passionate processions of Semana Santa are a powerful reflection of Spain’s deep religious traditions, and while it’s a solemn occasion, it’s also a beautiful spectacle to witness.
6. Carnival (Various Cities) – February or March (before Lent)
Carnival is celebrated in several parts of Spain, but the biggest and most famous are in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands and Cádiz on the mainland. During Carnival, people dress up in extravagant costumes, and there are parades, street parties, music, and dancing. The Tenerife Carnival is considered one of the biggest and most colorful in the world, with huge parades, live performances, and spectacular costumes. The Cádiz Carnival is famous for its satirical humor and lively street celebrations.
7. Fiesta de la Mercè (Barcelona) – September
Held in Barcelona in honor of the city’s patron saint, Our Lady of Mercy (La Mercè), this festival is one of the largest and most popular in Catalonia. The festival includes street performances, parades, concerts, and fireworks, but the highlight is the Castellers—human towers created by teams of people. These spectacular towers can reach up to 10 stories high, and it’s an incredible sight to see. You’ll also find traditional Catalan dances, delicious food stalls, and open-air concerts.
8. Feria de Agosto (Malaga) – August
Held every August in Málaga, this lively festival is a combination of flamenco music, dancing, bullfights, and parades. The festival is divided into two parts: the daytime fair in the city center, and the nighttime fair at the Fairgrounds on the outskirts of the city. At night, the fairground is filled with bright lights, music, and delicious food stalls. It’s a time for locals and visitors to come together and celebrate Málaga’s culture and traditions.
9. Día de los Muertos (All Saints’ Day) – November 1
While Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a Mexican tradition, it is also celebrated in parts of Spain, especially in regions like Catalonia and Andalucia. On November 1st, families gather to honor deceased loved ones, visiting cemeteries and placing flowers on graves. In Catalonia, the tradition of “Castanyada” involves eating chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and “panellets” (sweet almond cakes), and is a time for family gatherings and remembrance.
10. San Isidro (Madrid) – May 15
San Isidro is Madrid’s largest local festival, dedicated to Saint Isidro, the patron saint of the city. It’s celebrated with traditional music, parades, and folk dances. The festival’s highlight is the romería (pilgrimage) to San Isidro’s shrine in the countryside, where Madrileños enjoy picnics, drink “rosado” wine, and eat typical dishes like “cocido madrileño” (a hearty meat and chickpea stew). The festival also includes bullfights, concerts, and a fun carnival atmosphere.
11. La Feria de San Juan (Alicante) – June 24
In the city of Alicante, the Feria de San Juan marks the summer solstice. The festival includes bonfires, fireworks, and beach parties. Locals celebrate by jumping over bonfires at midnight, a tradition believed to bring good luck. The streets are filled with loud music, street performers, and delicious food, making it one of the most energetic and festivals in Spain.
Festivals and celebrations
Spain is a country that loves to celebrate, and there’s no shortage of festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure like the Running of the Bulls, a cultural experience with flamenco dancing and traditional music at Feria de Abril, or a fun, messy time at La Tomatina, there’s something for everyone. Spain’s festivals are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the country’s rich history and unique culture—so don’t miss the chance to participate in or watch one of these incredible events!