April in Spain means festivals, holidays, and a few rule changes. From flamenco and processions to tax returns and airport strikes — here's what to expect this month.

🕯️ Semana Santa Takes Over the Streets

From April 2 to 9, Spain goes all in for Semana Santa. Expect powerful processions, dramatic music, and floats with religious icons. This is not your average parade. Cities like Seville, Málaga, and Granada bring the full Andalusian flair. In the north, Valladolid, León, and Zamora step up with centuries-old traditions.

Tip: Book accommodations early — many locals travel or stay with family, and hotels fill up fast.

🛫 Airport Strikes Shake Up Travel Plans

If you're flying to or within Spain this Easter, brace yourself. Swissport ground crew are striking every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday until April 13. That means possible flight delays or cancellations. Affected airports include Barcelona, Madrid, Málaga, Alicante, Tenerife South, and several more.

📱 Sick Leave Goes Digital

Starting April 1, Spain is changing the way sick leave works. No more trips to the doctor for a piece of paper. Sick notes now go straight from the doctor to your company’s HR system. All electronic. Easier for employees, smoother for employers.

💰 Tax Season Kicks Off

From April 11, Spain opens the online portal for filing 2024 tax returns (for income earned in 2023). You have until June 30, but if you want to pay by direct debit, make sure you file before June 27. Most people file online via the Agencia Tributaria website.

📚 April 23 Is for Books, Roses, and a Bit of Dragon Lore

In Catalonia, April 23 is Sant Jordi Day. Locals gift books and roses to loved ones, and cities burst with red and yellow — the colors of the Catalan flag. It’s one of the region’s most loved celebrations.

In Aragón, it’s Día de Aragón, also honoring St. George. Think street performances, floral displays, and community events. The Balearic Islands and parts of Valencia join in with their own versions.

🚗 British Driver’s Licences Are Swappable Again

Good news for UK licence holders in Spain. As of March 16, you can exchange your British licence for a Spanish one. But don't wait too long — the six-month window is ticking. You’ll need a medical test, an appointment at the traffic office, and a bit of paperwork. Processing can take up to 6 weeks.

💃 Feria de Abril Heats Up Seville

From April 23 to 29, Seville hosts its biggest party of the year: the Feria de Abril. Expect flamenco, horse carriages, striped tents (casetas), and enough polka-dot dresses to fill a stadium. It’s Andalusia at its most vibrant.

⚔️ Moros y Cristianos Storms Alcoy

From April 22 to 24, the town of Alcoy in Alicante becomes a live history show. Locals dress as Moors and Christians to reenact medieval battles. The parades are detailed, loud, and packed with symbolism. Bonus: It also honors St. George, the city’s patron saint.

📅 Summary: What to Remember in April

• Semana Santa: April 2–9

• Swissport strikes: Every Mon, Tue & Thu until April 13

• Sick leave goes digital: from April 1

• Tax filing begins: April 11

• Sant Jordi & Aragón Day: April 23

• Seville’s Feria: April 23–29

• Alcoy’s Moors and Christians: April 22–24

• UK licence exchange: open since March 16

April in Spain isn’t quiet — and that’s just how the locals like it.