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Fiestas - Festivals and Holidays in Andalusia
Andalusia is known for its many holidays and events
"Festivals: Let the joy of Andalusia embrace you, as the fiestas dance to the rhythm of the heart and soul of the South."
Festivals in Andalusia: From Semana Santa to Feria de Abril
Andalusia is known for its vibrant and tradition-rich festivals. Throughout the year, events bring together music, dance, and centuries-old customs. Here’s an overview of the most famous celebrations in this southern Spanish region.
Semana Santa: The Holy Week
In the week leading up to Easter, Andalusia is immersed in Semana Santa. In cities such as Seville, Málaga, and Granada, processions fill the streets with religious statues carried by brotherhoods dressed in traditional robes. The sound of drums and chants creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere, drawing thousands of spectators to witness this age-old ritual.
Three Kings Day: Reyes Magos
On January 6, Spaniards celebrate Three Kings Day, a holiday as important for children as Christmas. On the evening of January 5, colorful floats with the Three Wise Men parade through the streets, distributing sweets to the crowds. These festive processions, known as the Cabalgata de Reyes, take place in almost every city and village, marking a magical end to the holiday season.
Carnival in Cádiz
Carnival is celebrated across Andalusia, but nowhere as exuberantly as in Cádiz. This festival is famous for its satirical performances, colorful costumes, and street musicians who use humor and song to comment on current events. For ten days, the city transforms into a giant open-air spectacle with parades and lively celebrations.
Feria de Abril: Seville’s Fair Week
Two weeks after Easter, Seville bursts into life with the Feria de Abril. This event revolves around flamenco, horseback riding, and socializing in festive tents. During the day, horseback parades take place, while at night, dance floors fill with revelers dressed in traditional attire. The city is illuminated by thousands of lights and decorations, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Romería de El Rocío
In May, one of Spain’s largest pilgrimages takes place: the Romería de El Rocío. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims travel on foot, horseback, or in covered wagons to the village of El Rocío to honor the Virgin of El Rocío. The journey is a blend of religion, music, and camaraderie, with participants celebrating and sharing meals along the way.
A Year-Round Festival Calendar
In addition to these major events, Andalusia hosts countless local celebrations, such as the Feria de Málaga in August and the Patios de Córdoba in May, when the city’s courtyards are beautifully decorated. Each festival has its own unique character and brings Andalusian culture to life. A visit to this region is not just about sun and beaches but also an immersion into centuries-old traditions and vibrant festivities.
Public Holidays in Andalusia 2025
Curious about the public holidays in Andalusia in 2025? Here’s a handy overview. Some are national holidays, while others are mainly celebrated in this region. Useful if you're planning a trip or want to know when shops and businesses might be closed.
January: A Fresh Start
January 1 - Año Nuevo (New Year's Day)
The first day of the year. Many businesses and shops are closed. A day to recover from New Year's Eve celebrations.January 6 - Día de los Reyes (Three Kings' Day)
More important than Christmas in Spain. Children receive gifts, and there are parades featuring the Three Wise Men.
February: Regional Pride
- February 28 - Día de Andalucía (Andalusia Day)
An official holiday in Andalusia. Expect parades and celebrations in cities and towns.
March: Father's Day and Semana Santa
March 19 - Día del Padre (Father’s Day)
Celebrated in many Spanish regions with gifts and family meals.Semana Santa (date varies)
One of the biggest religious celebrations in Spain. The processions are spectacular and attract many visitors.
April & May: Traditional and Religious Days
Jueves Santo & Viernes Santo (Maundy Thursday & Good Friday – date varies)
Days filled with religious traditions, including solemn processions.May 1 - Día del Trabajo (Labour Day)
A public holiday for many, marked by demonstrations and celebrations.First Sunday in May - Día de la Madre (Mother’s Day)
A day to celebrate and appreciate mothers.
Summer Festivals and National Commemorations
August 15 - Asunción de la Virgen (Assumption of Mary)
Many Spanish towns and cities celebrate this day with festivities.October 12 - Día de la Hispanidad (Hispanic Day, Columbus Day)
A national holiday with military parades and commemorations.
November & December: Remembrance and Festivities
November 1 - Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day)
A day to honor deceased loved ones, often by visiting cemeteries.December 6 - Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day)
Celebration of the Spanish Constitution.December 8 - Inmaculada Concepción (Immaculate Conception)
A religious holiday with processions and church services.December 24 - Nochebuena (Christmas Eve)
A time for family gatherings and elaborate dinners.December 25 - El Día de Navidad (Christmas Day)
A festive day with family, delicious food, and Christmas traditions.December 31 - Nochevieja (New Year's Eve)
The New Year is celebrated with the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight, one for each chime of the clock.
Useful Tips
On public holidays, shops, banks, and government offices may be closed. In tourist areas, many places remain open. Check opening hours in advance if you need to take care of something important.
Whether you live in Andalusia or are planning a visit, these holidays make the year extra special!
Tips
Some of the countless Ferías, Fiestas and Festivals that Andalusia has to offer
Los Reyes Magos - Epifanía Del Señor
On January 6, Spain celebrates the arrival of the Three Wise Men: Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar. Children leave their shoes out, and the Reyes Magos fill them with sweets and gifts. On January 5, colorful parades fill the streets, and families enjoy a lavish dinner. This festivity marks the end of the holiday season and provides a magical conclusion to the winter period.
📅 Date: January 5 and 6
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Carnaval
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Festival de Jerez
Flamenco lovers should visit Jerez de la Frontera in February or March. The Festival de Jerez offers dance performances, workshops, and concerts by top flamenco artists. From aspiring dancers to grandmasters, this festival showcases flamenco at its finest.
📅 Date: February or March, lasting about two weeks
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Semana Santa
The Holy Week leading up to Easter is marked by stunning processions. Brotherhoods carry decorated religious statues through the streets, accompanied by music and candlelight. Cities like Seville and Málaga attract thousands of visitors eager to experience the solemn atmosphere and deep-rooted traditions.
📅 Date: The week before Easter
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Festival de Cine Español
Málaga hosts the Spanish Film Festival, where the latest Spanish films are presented, and filmmakers and actors receive well-deserved recognition. In addition to premieres and award ceremonies, film enthusiasts can attend workshops and lectures.
📅 Date: March or April
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Fería Del Caballo
Jerez de la Frontera, known for its sherry and horses, brings them together at the Feria del Caballo. Horse lovers admire riders and carriages, while visitors enjoy flamenco performances and traditional Andalusian cuisine.
📅 Date: May
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Festival Internacional de Música y Danza de Granada
Summer begins in Granada with a festival of music, ballet, and opera. Performances take place at unique venues like the Alhambra, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The festival attracts top artists from around the world and is a highlight for culture lovers.
📅 Date: June and July
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Carreras de Caballo de Sanlúcar de Barrameda
Horse races on the beach? In Sanlúcar de Barrameda, it’s a reality. This summer tradition combines sport with festivity as spectators watch the races from the sand. With the sunset as a backdrop, this is a spectacle you won’t forget.
📅 Date: Summer
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Fería Goyesca de Pedro Romero
Ronda celebrates the Goyesca Feria in September, paying tribute to the legendary bullfighter Pedro Romero. The highlight is the bullfights in traditional 18th-century costumes, but the parades, music, and flamenco performances also make this festival unique.
📅 Date: First week of September
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Festival de los Patios Cordobeses
In May, Córdoba opens its most beautiful courtyards to visitors. Colorful flowers and fountains create a magical atmosphere. The best patio wins a prize, but in reality, everyone who strolls through these hidden courtyards is a winner.
📅 Date: May
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Fiesta del Ajoblanco, Almáchar
In Almáchar, everything revolves around ajoblanco, a cold almond-garlic soup. During this culinary festival, visitors not only get a bowl of this traditional dish but also enjoy live music and local wines. A delicious way to start September.
📅 Date: First Saturday of September
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