Special Events
Reyes Magos (Epiphany), marked by a procession of the ‘the kings’ with commercial floats, Jan, city centre Carnaval (Carnival), procession, masked ball and cultural events, culminating in the ritual Burial of the Sardine in the church of San Antonio de la Florida, Feb, Plaza Mayor Semana Santa (Holy Week), solemn religious processions and services, week leading to Easter, throughout the city Fiesta del 2 de Mayo (Festival of 2 May), marks the day when Madrid rose up against the French in 1808, with films, poetry recitals, concerts and dance, May, various venues Festival Flamenco Cajamadrid, Flamenco dancing competition, May, Teatro Albniz, Calle de la Paz 11 San Isidoro, commemoration of Madrid’s patron saint with procession to the church of San Isidoro, open-air dance performances, theatre productions, zarzuela, pop and rock concerts and sports competitions, May, Pradera de San Isidoro and various venues Gay Pride, festival culminates in a parade through the Retiro, Sol and Casa de Campo, last week in Jun, other events in Chueca district Veranos de la Villa (Summer in the City), cultural events, Jul–Aug, various venues Festival de Otoo (Autumn Festival), Madrid’s most important annual arts festival, Oct–Nov various venues Feria de Artesania (Advent Craft Fair), Dec, Paseo de Recoletos Natividad (Christmas), Christmas and New Year celebrations, Dec, Plaza Mayor Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve), crowds gather to eat grapes and drink champagne, 31 Dec, Puerta del Sol
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