Festivals in Spain
Whether you’ve travelled to Spain on holiday in the past or are dreaming of a luxury getaway abroad, it’s likely that you’ve heard of some of the larger festivals that go on in the country every year.
There’s the running of the bulls in Pamplona, for example, which honours San Fermin, and La Tomatina – essentially a giant tomato fight in Brunol. There’s also the Haro Wine Festival in La Rioja, which features a lively procession and plenty of drinking, as well as splashing and sometimes drenching your fellow festival-goers with red wine.
If you’re thinking about a weekend break, or a longer retreat in Espana, you might want to arrange the getaway to coincide with one of the country’s many festivals – and here at Unique Traveller, we can help you arrange just such a trip, either to one of the world-famous fiestas, or a smaller community event.
A brief guide to Spanish festivals
Most towns in Spain have a festival every year, and some have two – one in the winter and one in the summer. They are often smaller community events, that will give visitors a unique insight into genuine Spanish life, but some are larger celebrations that are popular among locals and tourists alike.
Carnival of Cadiz
An event that lasts for more than two weeks in the run-up to Lent, the Carnival of Cadiz is a musical extravaganza that differs from most of the world’s carnival celebrations in that it features more satirical and witty entertainment, rather than the glitz and glamour found in other places.
Easter in Seville
Holy Week, the seven days leading up to Easter, is one of the most important traditional events in this city in southern Spain. There are numerous processions with participants in traditional dress, costumes and the livery of specific religious orders. Some also include singing, dancing and musical groups.
Feria de Seville
Usually held in April, around two weeks after Holy Week celebrations, the capital of Andalucia comes alive again, this time for a massive fiesta comprising parades, bullfighting and plenty of delicious food and drink – perfect if you’re considering a culinary tour of Spain.
Feria de Jerez
Also known as Feria de Caballo, or the horse fair, this is one of the most important events on the calendar in Jerez de la Frontera – a charming municipality in Cadiz. The festival goes back to the medieval period and it was originally a gathering for farmers who wanted to buy and sell animals – particularly horses – followed by drinking plenty of sherry to celebrate. These days, the Feria de Jerez takes place in May and is divided into two parts: a fun fair and small village of restaurants and bars, and in the evenings it’s all lit up by thousands of decorative lights.
Falles in Valencia
This traditional celebration takes place in early March every year. It commemorates Saint Joseph and each neighbourhood in the region works together to produce a structure called a falla, which is burnt during the festival. During the five days and nights of the event, Valencia seemingly becomes one big party, with music and dancing, delicious cuisine and many people donning colourful traditional clothing.
El Rocio
Most towns and villages in Andalucia have an annual pilgrimage for its patron saint, but El Rocio’s is the most famous, attracting nearly a million people every year. It takes place in March or April – the weekend before Pentecost Monday, and it promises to be a colourful and lively event.
Enjoy a festival on your next holiday in Spain
Whether you’re looking for an opportunity to relax and forget about the day-to-day stress of life back home, a fun-filled family abroad or a romantic escape for two, The Unique Traveller can make it happen.
To find out more, or to start planning a getaway in Spain that includes an unforgettable Spanish festival experience, contact us today. A member of our team will be happy to help you plan your itinerary, including accommodation at fine hotels, excellent transportation and even meals at some of the region’s most amazing restaurants.