From taking in cutting-edge culture to relaxing in shady parks, there’s always something to do in eventos hoy en madrid.
January 6: Three Kings Day (Dia de los Reyes). Parades take over the streets in advance of the Christian Feast of Epiphany.
Observe the passionate soul of Spain at traditional flamenco shows in Madrid’s historic tablaos. Stunning singing and dancing to the piercing wail of the saeta.
Feria del Otono
El centro de la ciudad se ha llenado con casetas ejemplares y piezas bibliograficas de la 34 edición de la Feria del Libro Viejo y Antiguo de Madrid. La feria contara también un espacio pensado para los más pequeos, donde podrán colorear dos de los ltimos carteles de la feria.
Thousands of people have lined the streets to watch as the famous human towers, or castellónes, are constructed in Spain’s capital. The event takes place every year during the Festival del Otono.
If you’re in the mood for live music, visit one of the many concerts and musicals on offer today in Madrid. And if you prefer art, you can check out all the photography, painting, sculpture, science and history exhibitions. IFEMA MADRID also has a variety of plays and shows. Whatever you’re into, there is something for everyone at the Feria del Otono. The event is free of charge. Apertura de las casetas de la feria es de once por la maana y a partir de ocho y media de la noche lunes a viernes y sábados.
Festimad
The Festimad is a festival in Madrid that celebrates dance, music and theatre. It features a variety of performances in venues and streets in the centre of the city. It attracts many spectators from all over Spain and has international artists as well.
Explore the royal palace on a day when it isn’t being used for official state events (Mapfre Foundation, Recoletos Exhibition Hall. 19 Sept-5 Jan). Discover the personal relationship between art dealer and patron Durand-Ruel and his proteges in this exhibition (Mapfre Foundation, Recoletos. 19 Sept-5 Jan). Or visit a unique circus that brings together tradition with innovation on ice (Big Top next to Palacio de Hielo. Thursday to Sunday. 18 Oct-12 Jan). There are plenty of other options as well, from a lively festival that belies the midsummer image of Madrid as a lethargic ghost town to an extravagant parade of flower-bedecked floats. Watch as acrobats pirouette, musicians improvise and seasonal songs fill the air.
Virgen de la Paloma
As the summer heat subsides, Madrid celebrates the feast days of its patron saints. Residents decorate their streets, balconies and homes for the Virgen de la Paloma, San Cayetano and San Lorenzo celebrations. These open-air events reflect the local spirit and are enjoyed by both Madrileos and those who are new to the city.
The story of the Virgen de la Paloma began in the eighteenth century when a local woman found a painted image on her doorstep. It was soon attracting crowds of devotees and in 1912 a church dedicated to the Virgin was built.
The yearly procession on 15 August is the main event of the festival. Members of the fire brigade take down the painting and mount it on a carriage, which is paraded around the neighborhood. It’s an impressive event and a great example of intangible religious heritage that fosters a sense of community among the people who participate in it.
Carnaval de Madrid
As well as music, theatre, opera and dance, Madrid’s cultural program includes art exhibitions of all kinds. Check the calendar for details of this exciting event.
During Carnaval de Madrid, people dress up and dance naked or in outrageous costumes to the beat of music from DJs like CF Grand Wizardo, Tomasito and DJ Bombin. A mask contest also takes place at the Circulo de Bellas Artes.
Virgen de la Paloma belies Madrid’s reputation as a lethargic ghost city during the midsummer heat and sees streets transformed into a crowded riot of street bunting, drinking stalls and live music. A float decorated with flowers and carrying an 18th-century gold framed portrait of the patron saint, the Virgin of la Paloma, is paraded through the streets. The festivities culminate with the traditional Burial of the Sardine, immortalized by Goya in his painting. The festival also has a gastronomic route, offering original versions of Madrid’s Carnival dessert, the chocolate sardine.
