From traditional religious parades to cutting-edge arts festivals and one of Europe’s biggest pride parades, Eventos madrid noviembre 2024 calendar is packed with events. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a permanent move, knowing what’s on in Madrid is key.
Get to know Madrid’s UNESCO World Heritage city on a full-day tour or see the latest flamenco trends at a tablao.
Festimad
The Spanish capital’s cultural festivals range from traditional religious parades to cutting-edge arts and one of Europe’s biggest pride events. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break or planning a move, these spirited celebrations will give you an insider’s perspective on Madrid.
During this vibrant event, the city’s oldest neighborhood turns into a crowded riot of street bunting, drinking stalls and live music as people carry out their own version of the float procession honoring the Virgen de la Paloma. The climactic end is a firework-filled spectacle.
In Spain, Christmas looks a little different than in the West. Before society embraced Santa, gifts were traditionally given on January 6, the Day of the Epiphany. The more than two-hour Three Kings Parade pays respect to Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar on their biblical journey to bring baby Jesus presents of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Afterwards, indulge in traditional foods such as donuts in just about every flavor and entresijos (lamb intestines fried in fat). The event occurs January 5-10.
Carnaval de Madrid
If you’ve never been to a carnival, it is quite similar to Mardi Gras but on a much larger scale. Costumes, booze, music, dancing, and parades are all part of the fun!
In February, Madrid is full of color and merriment as locals celebrate Carnaval. Street parades, concerts, workshops and other events are planned.
On December 28 and 29, the streets are filled with revellers who take part in a choral procession honouring the Three Kings. They give gifts to children who throng the plazas in anticipation of seeing Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar in person.
A leading figure in the city reads a proclamation on Puerta del Sol that kickstarts the event. The ringing of bells and ritual grape eating follow. From there, the celebrations spread out across the city centre. Businesses and restaurants stay open all night long. Events also include theatre and dance performances, concerts, markets, and cultural centres.
La Inmaculada Concepcion
In the Catholic country of Spain, December 8 is a day of deep religious significance and cultural celebration. It is the feast of La Inmaculada Concepcion, or Immaculate Conception, which honors the belief that Mary was conceived without original sin. It is also a Holy Day of Obligation, which means that all Catholics must attend a special mass. The holiday is celebrated with great reverence in the country and showcases the rich tapestry of Spanish traditions.
The holiday is marked with church services, processions and a traditional dance known as “Los Sieses.” This blend of sacred and folk elements is spectacular to behold, and it adds to the day’s ceremonial grandeur. The holiday also marks the beginning of Christmas festivities, which will continue until Three Kings Day on January 6. It is a great time to be in Madrid, with plenty of festive events and decorations lighting up the city’s streets. The festivities typically include parades, fairs, and a variety of culinary and musical offerings.
Three Kings Day
Every year on January 5th, a shower of sweets falls upon Madrid as the kings Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar parade through the city centre. The celebration is mainly for children, but Spaniards love a freebie so it’s not uncommon to see adults with upturned umbrellas trying to catch some of the candy-throwing magic.
The parade is a relatively modern invention and doesn’t follow religious dogma. Instead, it’s an excuse to have fun – even the kings themselves aren’t afraid to play a few practical jokes. In the town of Santillana del Mar, for example, one of the kings is disguised as a local baker and serves his own version of the famous roscon. Carefully hidden inside is a small figurine. The person who gets the slice with the figure must pay for the roscon!
Discover the work of the art dealer and patron Durand-Ruel through this exhibition (Mapfre Foundation. Until 5 Jan).
