Festivals and Celebrations in Spain

It’s no surprise that one of the first Spanish words we learn at school is ‘Fiesta’, not only because it covers such a broad, colourful spectrum in Spain but also because, in essence, it’s what Spain is all about; la Fiesta! There are approximately 30 public holidays that take place across the country per year including those at Christmas and Easter, and each region has its own individual calendar additions when they celebrate local patron Saints and historical events.

In addition, Spain is home to some of the most famous and somewhat strange festivals in the world. We’ve all heard that they throw tomatoes in Buñol, chase bulls in Pamplona and set giant statues on fire in Valencia – to the Spanish these are the most normal occurrences ever, but to visitors this country could not seem any crazier! Even the celebrations we all know and love like Christmas and Easter are celebrated differently here, and it’s definitely worth reading up on the main traditions to make sure you know what to expect (and how to take part).

Fallas
Semana Santa
San Isidro
FestivalDateLocation
Las FallasMarchValencia
CarnivalBefore Lent All over Spain
Semana Santa AprilAll over Spain
San Isidro MayMadrid
Hogueras de San Juan JuneAlicante
SantiagoJulySantiago de Compostela
San Fermín JulyPamplona
La Tomatina AugustBuñol
Moors & Christians VariousAll over Spain