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A Guide to the Best Festivals and Celebrations in Spain

04 Apr 2023
Spain is well-known for its vibrant and colourful festivals, which are an important part of the country's cultural heritage. These celebrations can be anything from a street fair to an agricultural or craft fair. The variety of festivals in Spain is almost endless. From the most common celebrations to the lesser-known ones, there’s something for everyone. Some of the biggest and most well-known festivals in Spain include:
La Tomatina Valencia © flydime, Flickr / CC 2.0
La Tomatina Valencia © Flydime, Flickr / CC 2.0

La Tomatina, Valencia

La Tomatina is a world-renowned festival held annually in the Valencian town of Buñol, Spain. The origins of the epic tomato-throwing battle are unknown, but the tradition is thought to date back to the mid-1940s. Each year, thousands of participants from around the world gather to partake in the fun. The tomatoes used are specifically grown for the event and are soft enough to be thrown without causing injury. Beginning with a parade and fireworks display, the tomato-throwing battle then begins and lasts for an hour. La Tomatina is an unforgettable experience and can't be missed!

Feria de Abril, Seville

The Feria de Abril, or April Fair, is a lively event held annually in Seville, Spain. It is a celebration of all things Andalusian, featuring vibrant costumes, traditional flamenco music, and copious amounts of dancing. The fair is held in the Los Remedios district and spans over a week, taking place in the weeks leading up to Easter. The atmosphere of the fair is electric, with bright, multi-coloured lights, delicious food, and a variety of activities to take part in.

The grand parade, which goes through the main streets of the town, is one of the highlights of the celebration, with vibrant costumes and equestrian shows. Feria de Abril is a must-see and a unique experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the culture and experience the true spirit of Andalusia.
Valencia parade © PE Barbaix from Pixabay
© PE Barbaix from Pixabay

La Mercè, Barcelona

La Mercè is a festival held every year in September in Barcelona, Spain. It is a celebration of the city's patron saint, the Virgin of La Mercè, and dates back to 1871. During the four-day celebration, Barcelona’s streets are filled with music, dancing, and parades, featuring traditional Spanish and Catalan performances.
Some of the most popular events include the Castellers (human towers), the Correfoc (fire runs), and the Sardana (circle dances). The celebration is unique in that it is not only a festive event but also a way to promote the city’s culture and identity. La Mercè is a fantastic opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and spirit of Barcelona, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city.
Catalan parade in Barcelona © eder-pozo-perez-unsplash.jpg
Parade in Barcelona © Eder Pozo Perez / Unsplash.jpg

Las Fallas, Valencia

Las Fallas, the traditional festival held in Valencia, Spain, is one of the most popular and iconic celebrations in the country. It typically starts in the last week of February and continues until March 19th, with the main festival taking place on March 16th. The festival is a vibrant and colourful event, with huge paper mâché sculptures and intricate firework displays.

During the festival, it is tradition to use firecrackers and fireworks to create loud noises and to light the night sky with fire. Each evening of the festival, a parade of elaborate tableaux featuring large figures of famous people is paraded through the city. On the last day, the figures are burned on a traditional bonfire, symbolising the cleansing of the city. Las Fallas is an amazing and unique experience and definitely one of the most fascinating festivals in Spain.
Festa Major, Gràcia, Barcelona 2019 © Joan, Flickr / CC 2.0
Festa Major, Gràcia, Barcelona 2019 © Joan, Flickr / CC 2.0

Festa major de Gràcia, Barcelona

The Festa Major de Gràcia is one of the most beloved celebrations in all of Spain. Held in August each year, this festival is an explosion of colour, music, and entertainment. Streets are decorated in elaborate and creative displays, while the locals dress in bright colours and gather to enjoy concerts, street performances, and traditional Catalan music.

The Festa Major de Gràcia is also an opportunity to sample the local cuisine. There are vendors serving up delicious traditional food and drinks, and you can even try your hand at traditional Spanish dances. The festival is a time for the locals to come together in celebration of their culture and to share it with visitors from around the world. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Catalan culture and experience the vibrant colours, tastes, and sounds of Barcelona and its people.

Final words

From the wild and lively San Fermin to the tranquil and beautiful Semana Santa, Spain is filled with many more festivals and celebrations that are sure to leave you with an unforgettable experience. If you're looking to visit Spain and take part in these celebrations, be sure to do your research and plan your trip carefully. Also, don't forget to get Spain travel insurance to ensure better peace of mind.

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