Spanish festivals worth traveling for
Spain. One of my favorite countries in the whole wide world. Probably because I’ve spent so much time there and I would go back and visit in a heartbeat. If you need an excuse to visit Spain, they have tons of annual festivals and cultural celebrations that are definitely worth traveling for. Which of the below would you be interested in attending?
Las Fallas:
This popular festival is held in Valencia, a city in southeastern Spain (and less than 4 hours from Madrid). Las Fallas celebrates the beginning of Spring and is known for the giant, elaborate puppets called “ninots” that are displayed all over the city for 19 days (usually March 1-19). These puppets can be large and are made into all kinds of figures, both modern and traditional. On the 19th and last day of the festival, all the puppets are set ablaze, saving the one chosen to be the best for last.
La Tomatina:
You’ve likely heard of this tomato-slinging festival where participants throw tomatoes at one another in a giant red food fight. Thousands of pounds of overripe tomatoes are brought in for the festival, which likely makes it easier for them to go splat on your chosen target. This festival happens in Buñol, a town just about 30 minutes west of the city of Valencia and occurs on the last Wednesday in August.
Fiesta de San Isidro:
This festival honors the patron saint of Madrid, San Isidro Labrador. The festival lasts about a week around May 6-15 and consists of music, concerts, dancing, flamenco and outdoor activities that are held all over the city of Madrid.
Fiesta de los Patios:
If you love flowers and are a fan of Andalusian architecture, this might be a good festival for you. This festival and contest happens in the Spring (the first week of May) in Córdoba, a beautiful city in the southern region of Spain, Andalusia. During the festival, locals allow the public to enter their private homes to admire their gorgeous flower-filled patios, which are traditional interior Spanish-style courtyards. The patios are fully decked out with colorful flowers hung all throughout the patio including on the walls.
Semana Santa:
Semana Santa or Holy Week (the 7 days leading up to Easter) is celebrated all over Spain. But I must say, the way they celebrate it in Seville is a sight to be seen. Semana Santa is characterized by large, elaborate processions and floats of Jesus and Mary, honoring the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. The parades are huge so be prepared for large crowds!