Spain stands as one of Europe’s most vibrant cultural destinations, offering an extraordinary calendar of events in Spain 2025 that captivates millions of visitors from around the globe. From ancient religious processions that have endured for centuries to cutting-edge music festivals that attract international superstars, the Iberian Peninsula promises an unforgettable experience throughout the year. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of traditional Spanish festivals, the energy of contemporary cultural events, or the excitement of world-class sporting events, Spain’s diverse regional celebrations ensure there’s something spectacular happening every month.
The year 2025 marks several significant milestones in Spanish culture, including the 1000-year anniversary of Montserrat Abbey and numerous special commemorative festivals and celebrations. Spain’s reputation for hosting some of the world’s most unique and exhilarating popular events continues to grow, with each region contributing its own distinctive flavor to the national cultural tapestry. From the sun-soaked beaches of Andalucía hosting summer festivals to the historic squares of Madrid welcoming international events, every corner of Spain pulses with celebratory energy.
This comprehensive guide explores the most anticipated Spanish events 2025, providing essential information for travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to immerse themselves in Spain’s rich festival heritage. We’ll journey through traditional celebrations like the legendary Running of the Bulls and La Tomatina, contemporary music festivals featuring global artists, regional specialties that showcase local traditions, and modern cultural events that blend Spain’s historic roots with innovative artistic expression.
Whether you’re planning a cultural pilgrimage, seeking adventure through Spain’s most exciting festivals, or simply curious about the country’s celebration calendar, this guide serves as your essential companion to experiencing the very best events in Spain throughout 2025.
Major Traditional Spanish Festivals in 2025
Las Fallas (Valencia) – March 1-19, 2025
Las Fallas remains one of Spain’s most spectacular traditional festivals, transforming Valencia into a massive outdoor art gallery and celebration zone for nearly three weeks. This UNESCO World Heritage celebration combines artistry, fire, and community spirit in ways that perfectly exemplify Spanish festival culture. The festival features enormous sculptural displays called “fallas” that satirize everything from politics to pop culture, created by talented local artists throughout the year.
This carnival is all about adding that colour of pop to the streets of Valencia, as massive fireworks displays occur daily at 2 PM in the historic Plaza del Ayuntamiento, creating one of the most distinctive Spanish events experiences. The celebration reaches its crescendo on March 19th with “La Cremà,” when all the artistic sculptures are ceremonially burned in a spectacular pyrotechnic display that attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators.
Festival highlights include the daily mascletà (rhythmic firework displays), the offering of flowers to the Virgin of the Forsaken, and traditional Valencian paella competitions. Visitors can experience authentic Spanish culture through street parties, traditional music performances, and the famous agua de Valencia cocktail. The event showcases Spain’s ability to blend ancient traditions with modern celebration styles.
Semana Santa (Holy Week) – March 30-April 6, 2025
Throughout Andalucía, Semana Santa or Holy Week is one of the most significant religious festivals, marked by solemn processions organized by religious brotherhoods. This deeply moving religious festival represents one of Spain’s most important cultural events, combining centuries-old traditions with profound spiritual significance across multiple cities simultaneously.
Semana Santa processions feature elaborate wooden platforms called “pasos” carrying sacred statues through historic city centers, accompanied by hooded penitents and haunting saetas (flamenco-style songs). The most spectacular celebrations occur in Seville, Granada, Córdoba, and Málaga, where each city adds its own regional character to the ancient rituals.
The festival atmosphere intensifies throughout the week, culminating in massive processions on Good Friday that can last more than 12 hours. Visitors witness one of Spain’s most authentic traditional celebrations, experiencing the profound connection between Spanish religious heritage and contemporary festival culture. The event offers insight into Spain’s deep Catholic roots while showcasing the artistic mastery of religious sculpture and music.
Feria de Abril (Seville) – May 5-11, 2025
Amongst all the fascinating Spain festivals in 2025, the April Fair of Seville is one event that would make you fall in love with the country’s culture. This week-long celebration transforms Seville into a wonderland of flamenco, traditional costumes, and Andalusian hospitality that perfectly captures the essence of southern Spanish festival spirit.
The Feria de Abril begins with the ceremonial lighting of the fairground entrance at midnight, followed by six days of continuous celebration in over 1,000 private casetas (small houses) and public venues. Visitors can witness authentic flamenco dancing, traditional Spanish horseback riding, and elaborate traditional costumes that showcase centuries of Andalusian cultural heritage.
Festival activities include daily bullfights, horse parades featuring magnificent Andalusian horses, and endless opportunities to enjoy traditional foods like jamón ibérico and manzanilla sherry. The event represents one of Spain’s most authentic cultural experiences, where visitors can immerse themselves in genuine Andalusian traditions while enjoying one of Europe’s most colorful spring festivals.
San Fermín – Running of the Bulls (Pamplona) – July 7-14, 2025
The Running of the Bulls in Pamplona stands as arguably Spain’s most internationally recognized festival, attracting thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. This legendary summer festival combines adrenaline-pumping excitement with deep-rooted Navarrese traditions, creating an unforgettable experience that has inspired countless books, films, and documentaries.
The Running of the Bulls in Pamplona and La Tomatina in Buñol are two of the most famous Spanish festivals globally. Each morning at 8 AM, hundreds of runners test their courage alongside six fighting bulls through Pamplona’s historic streets, covering the 875-meter course in approximately three minutes of pure excitement.
Beyond the famous bull runs, San Fermín offers a complete cultural celebration featuring traditional Basque music, regional cuisine, religious processions honoring San Fermín, and nonstop street parties that continue until dawn. The festival showcases Basque cultural traditions through folk dancing, traditional sports competitions, and authentic regional foods like pintxos and local wines.
La Tomatina (Buñol) – August 27, 2025
La Tomatina represents Spain’s most unusual and internationally celebrated food festival, transforming the small town of Buñol into the world’s largest tomato fight. This unique summer event attracts over 20,000 participants who engage in the ultimate food fight using more than 100 tons of overripe tomatoes in just one hour of organized chaos.
The festival begins with the traditional “palo jabón” (greasy pole) challenge, where participants attempt to climb a soap-covered pole to retrieve a leg of jamón, officially starting the tomato battle. Most street festivals and public celebrations are free, though La Tomatina requires advance ticket purchase due to its immense popularity.
This quirky Spanish celebration perfectly demonstrates Spain’s ability to create joy and community around the most unexpected activities. The event includes traditional music, dancing, and paella competitions, making it a complete cultural experience that combines Spanish humor, community spirit, and pure fun in ways that have made it one of the world’s most copied festival concepts.
Contemporary Music Festivals and Cultural Events
Primavera Sound Barcelona – June 4-6, 2025
Primavera Sound stands as one of Europe’s premier music festivals, consistently ranking among the world’s most influential indie and alternative music events. Primavera Sound (May 29 – June 1, 2025, Barcelona) – A globally renowned music festival featuring top artists. This legendary Barcelona festival attracts music lovers from around the globe with its carefully curated lineup spanning indie rock, electronic, pop, and experimental genres.
The festival takes place in the stunning Parc del Fòrum, offering spectacular Mediterranean Sea views alongside world-class musical performances. Primavera Sound 2025 features multiple stages showcasing both established international headliners and emerging artists, creating an unparalleled music festival experience that has influenced festival culture worldwide.
Beyond music, the event celebrates Barcelona’s vibrant cultural scene through art installations, culinary experiences featuring Catalán cuisine, and collaborations with local cultural institutions. The festival perfectly represents Spain’s position at the forefront of contemporary European music culture, combining international appeal with distinctive Spanish hospitality and style.
Sónar Festival Barcelona – June 18-20, 2025
Sónar Festival, Barcelona (electronic music) continues its reputation as the world’s most innovative electronic music festival, blending cutting-edge music with advanced technology and multimedia art. This pioneering cultural event has influenced electronic music festivals globally, consistently presenting the most forward-thinking artists and technological innovations.
Sónar 2025 features two distinct experiences: Sónar by Day, focusing on emerging artists and technology exhibitions, and Sónar by Night, presenting major electronic music headliners in spectacular production settings. The festival showcases Spain’s leadership in electronic music culture and technological innovation within the arts.
The event extends beyond music to include the SónarD conference, addressing the intersection of creativity and technology, making it essential for industry professionals. Sónar represents Barcelona’s status as a global hub for creative industries, attracting international media, artists, and technology leaders while maintaining its commitment to artistic innovation.
Mad Cool Festival Madrid – July 10-12, 2025
Olivia Rodrigo, Muse, Noah Kahan, Gracie Abrams, Nine Inch Nails, Alanis Morrisette and Weezer are some of the artists already confirmed for this edition. Mad Cool Festival has rapidly established itself as one of Europe’s most important summer music festivals, bringing international superstars to Madrid’s purpose-built venue.
This massive Madrid event features multiple stages presenting diverse musical genres from rock and pop to hip-hop and electronic music. The festival demonstrates Madrid’s growing importance in the international music festival circuit, attracting hundreds of thousands of music fans to Spain’s capital city.
Mad Cool offers a complete festival experience with gourmet food options, art installations, and sustainability initiatives that reflect contemporary Spanish values. The event perfectly captures Madrid’s cosmopolitan energy while showcasing Spain’s ability to host world-class international music events.
FIB (Festival Internacional de Benicàssim) – July 17-20, 2025
Of all the Spanish music festivals, Benicassim is the four-day event that you ought to be a part of at least once in your life. FIB represents one of Spain’s longest-running and most beloved summer music festivals, combining beach culture with exceptional musical programming in the beautiful coastal town of Benicàssim.
This iconic Spanish music festival takes place just meters from the Mediterranean Sea, offering attendees the unique experience of enjoying world-class music performances while having access to beautiful beaches during the day. FIB 2025 continues its tradition of presenting diverse lineups featuring international headliners alongside Spanish artists.
The festival has become synonymous with Spanish summer culture, attracting international tourists who combine music with beach holidays. FIB demonstrates Spain’s mastery of combining natural beauty with cultural events, creating experiences that extend far beyond traditional music festival formats.
Regional Celebrations and Local Events
Aste Nagusia (Great Week) Bilbao – August 16-24, 2025
Known as Aste Nagusia in Basque, Semana Grande or Great Week (sometimes called “Grand Week” or “Big Week” in English) is the biggest festival in the Basque region of Spain. This massive Basque festival transforms Bilbao into one continuous celebration for nine days, showcasing the distinctive Basque culture through music, traditional sports, and community events.
The festival features daily concerts, traditional Basque sports competitions like stone lifting and wood chopping, and the famous Marijaia puppet that serves as the celebration’s symbol. Aste Nagusia offers visitors authentic insight into Basque traditions while enjoying one of Spain’s most energetic summer festivals.
Some famous stars like Iggy Pop, Public Enemy and Earth, Wind and Fire have participated in the past, demonstrating the festival’s ability to attract international artists while maintaining its strong regional identity. This cultural celebration perfectly represents the Basque Country’s unique position within Spanish festival culture.
Fiesta de San Mateo (Logroño) – September 20-26, 2025
Fiesta de San Mateo, Logroño (between Pamplona and Burgos; grape-harvest festival with free-flowing sangria, food fights, traditional cuisine, parades, bullfights, fireworks. This harvest festival celebrates La Rioja’s world-famous wine culture through one of Spain’s most authentic regional celebrations.
The festival combines ancient harvest traditions with contemporary celebration, featuring wine tastings, traditional folk dancing, and religious processions honoring San Mateo. Visitors experience authentic Spanish wine culture while enjoying one of the country’s most genuine local festivals.
Fiesta de San Mateo showcases La Rioja’s agricultural heritage and wine-making traditions, making it essential for anyone interested in Spanish gastronomy and cultural tourism. The event represents Spain’s ability to maintain ancient traditions while creating contemporary festival experiences.
Batalla del Vino (Haro) – June 29, 2025
La Batalla del Vino, Haro (between Pamplona and Burgos; “wine battle” celebrating Feast of San Pedro). This unique wine festival transforms the small town of Haro into the setting for Spain’s most unusual food and drink celebration, where participants engage in friendly combat using red wine instead of weapons.
Located in the La Rioja province, Haro is a small town in Northern Spain that hosts one of the best festivals in Spain. The festival begins with a traditional procession to the Hermitage of San Felices, followed by the famous wine battle where thousands of participants soak each other with red wine using everything from water pistols to buckets.
This extraordinary Spanish celebration demonstrates the country’s playful approach to honoring traditional products and regional identity. The Batalla del Vino has become increasingly popular with international visitors seeking unique cultural experiences that combine Spanish wine culture with community celebration.
Cruces de Mayo (Córdoba and Granada) – May 3, 2025
Cruces de Mayo, primarily in Andalucía (towns decorated with crosses made of flowers, particularly big and accompanied by flamenco dancing in Córdoba and Granada). This beautiful spring festival transforms Andalusian cities into floral wonderlands, showcasing Spain’s artistic heritage through elaborate flower arrangements and traditional performances.
The festival features neighborhoods competing to create the most beautiful flower crosses, accompanied by flamenco performances, traditional foods, and community celebrations. Cruces de Mayo represents one of Spain’s most photogenic cultural events, combining religious tradition with artistic expression.
This Andalusian celebration offers visitors authentic experiences of southern Spanish culture, featuring traditional crafts, regional cuisine, and the opportunity to witness spontaneous flamenco performances in intimate neighborhood settings. The event perfectly captures the essence of Andalusian community spirit and artistic tradition.
Sports and Special Interest Events
Spanish Grand Prix (Formula 1) – Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya – May 23-25, 2025
The Spanish Grand Prix represents one of Europe’s premier sporting events, attracting hundreds of thousands of motorsport enthusiasts to the technically challenging Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. This international sporting event combines world-class racing with Spanish hospitality, creating an unforgettable experience for motorsport fans.
The Grand Prix weekend features three days of intense racing action, including practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the main race featuring the world’s best Formula 1 drivers. The event showcases Spain’s capability to host major international sports competitions while providing excellent facilities and organization.
Beyond racing, the Spanish Grand Prix offers cultural experiences including visits to nearby Barcelona, regional cuisine experiences, and opportunities to explore Catalán cultural attractions. This sporting celebration demonstrates Spain’s successful integration of international sports with tourism and cultural promotion.
San Sebastián International Film Festival – September 19-27, 2025
San Sebastián International Film Festival (September 19-27, 2025 & 2026) – A prestigious event in world cinema. This internationally acclaimed cultural event transforms the beautiful Basque coastal city into the center of European cinema for nine days of screenings, premieres, and industry events.
The film festival attracts major international stars, directors, and industry professionals, featuring competitive sections, retrospectives, and special screenings in some of Europe’s most beautiful theaters. San Sebastián offers film enthusiasts the opportunity to discover new cinema while enjoying one of Spain’s most elegant coastal cities.
The festival extends beyond cinema to include cultural activities, gastronomic experiences featuring world-renowned Basque cuisine, and opportunities to explore the stunning Basque coastline. This international cultural event perfectly represents Spain’s commitment to arts and culture at the highest international level.
UEFA European Championship Matches (Various Cities) – June-July 2025
Spain’s participation in hosting UEFA Euro 2024 matches demonstrates the country’s excellence in staging major international sporting events. Multiple Spanish cities showcase their world-class stadiums and organizational capabilities while providing unique cultural experiences for visiting fans.
The European Championship brings together Europe’s best national teams in Spain’s most modern stadiums, creating atmosphere and excitement that exemplifies Spanish sports culture. Each host city offers distinct regional experiences, from Basque culture in Bilbao to Andalusian traditions in Seville.
These international matches provide visitors with opportunities to experience Spanish football culture firsthand while exploring different regions of the country. The tournament represents Spain’s continued leadership in international sports hosting and tourism.
Art, Culture, and Exhibition Events
Montserrat Abbey 1000th Anniversary Celebrations – Throughout 2025
Home to the famous Benedictine abbey, it is a religious symbol of Catalonia and is celebrating its 1000-year birthday in 2025. Throughout the year commemorative events will take place there, from special concerts to exhibitions and a striking videomapping inside the basilica. This remarkable milestone represents one of 2025’s most significant cultural celebrations in Spain.
The anniversary celebrations include special exhibitions, concerts, and innovative multimedia presentations that blend ancient traditions with contemporary artistic expression. Visitors can experience the spiritual and cultural significance of this sacred site while enjoying specially commissioned cultural events throughout the year.
Montserrat’s millennium offers unique opportunities to explore Catalán religious heritage, medieval history, and contemporary arts within one of Spain’s most dramatically situated monasteries. The celebrations demonstrate Spain’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its ancient cultural treasures.
Segovia Cathedral 500th Anniversary – 2025
The cathedral has organised a varied programme to commemorate the occasion, with special guided tours and the installation of a giant moon measuring seven metres across in February and March. This significant cultural milestone celebrates one of Spain’s most magnificent Gothic cathedrals with special events throughout the year.
The anniversary program includes special exhibitions, concerts, and innovative art installations that highlight the cathedral’s architectural significance and cultural importance. The unique seven-meter moon installation demonstrates Spain’s innovative approach to celebrating historical monuments.
Segovia’s celebration offers visitors opportunities to explore Castilian cultural heritage while experiencing contemporary artistic interpretations of historical significance. The anniversary events perfectly balance historical preservation with creative contemporary expression.
Madrid Art Galleries Night – September 11-14, 2025
The great contemporary art party in which galleries and museums kick off the new season. This cultural event transforms Madrid into one massive art celebration, with galleries, museums, and cultural institutions opening their doors for special exhibitions, performances, and cultural activities.
Madrid Art Week features special exhibitions, artist talks, gallery openings, and cultural activities that showcase the capital’s position as a major European art center. The event includes both established institutions and emerging galleries, providing comprehensive exposure to Spanish and international contemporary art.
This cultural celebration offers art enthusiasts unique access to Madrid’s vibrant arts scene while experiencing the city’s famous nightlife and cultural atmosphere. The event demonstrates Madrid’s continued evolution as a major international cultural destination.
Food and Gastronomy Events
World Paella Day Cup (Valencia) – September 20, 2025
On 20 September, the best paella in the world will be chosen at the VII World Paella Day Cup in Valencia. This gastronomic event celebrates Spain’s most internationally recognized dish while showcasing Valencia’s position as the birthplace of authentic paella.
The World Paella Championship brings together professional chefs and amateur cooks from around the globe to compete in creating the perfect paella using traditional techniques and ingredients. The event offers visitors opportunities to taste authentic paella varieties while learning about traditional Valencian cooking methods.
This culinary celebration extends beyond competition to include cooking workshops, ingredient tastings, and cultural activities that explore the historical and cultural significance of paella in Spanish gastronomy. The festival represents Spain’s growing reputation as a major gastronomic tourism destination.
Alicante Spanish Capital of Gastronomy 2025
Another good reason to visit the Region of Valencia is that Alicante will be the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy in 2025, meaning it will host special events throughout the year. This prestigious designation brings year-long culinary events celebrating Mediterranean cuisine and regional specialties.
Alicante’s gastronomic program includes special restaurant promotions, cooking festivals, wine tastings, and cultural activities that showcase the region’s exceptional culinary heritage. The events highlight local ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and innovative contemporary cuisine.
This gastronomic celebration offers food enthusiasts comprehensive exploration of Mediterranean Spanish cuisine while enjoying Alicante’s beautiful coastal setting. The designation demonstrates Spain’s leadership in culinary tourism and gastronomic culture.
World Forum on Gastronomic Tourism (San Sebastián) – November 2025
Donostia-San Sebastián sets the benchmark. There are not many places in the world that have the same claim to fame as this Basque city: it is home to 19 Michelin stars in an area of less than 30 kilometres. This international gastronomic event brings together the world’s leading culinary experts, chefs, and tourism professionals.
The World Forum addresses the intersection of gastronomy and tourism, featuring presentations by renowned chefs, food industry leaders, and tourism experts. San Sebastián’s exceptional culinary reputation provides the perfect setting for discussions about gastronomic tourism trends and innovations.
This professional event offers industry insights while providing opportunities to experience some of the world’s finest dining in a city that perfectly represents Spain’s culinary excellence. The forum demonstrates Spain’s leadership in gastronomic tourism and culinary culture.
Christmas and New Year Celebrations
Cabalgata de Reyes (Three Kings Day) – January 5, 2025
Every January 5th, on the eve of the Epiphany, Spain celebrates the enchanting Cabalgata de Reyes, a procession embodying holiday spirit, community, and tradition. This magical Christmas celebration represents one of Spain’s most beloved family events, bringing communities together in spectacular parades throughout the country.
Towns and cities across the country come alive with vibrant parades featuring elaborate floats, live music, and theatrical performances. The Three Kings parades feature elaborate floats, costumed performers, and the traditional arrival of the Magi, who shower children with candy and small gifts.
This traditional celebration showcases Spanish Christmas culture, which emphasizes family, community, and the joy of giving. The Cabalgata de Reyes offers visitors authentic experiences of Spanish holiday traditions while participating in one of the country’s most heartwarming cultural events.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations (Nochevieja) – December 31, 2025
Spanish New Year celebrations combine ancient traditions with contemporary party culture, creating unique experiences in cities throughout the country. The famous “12 grapes at midnight” tradition takes place in town squares across Spain, with Madrid’s Puerta del Sol hosting the most famous national celebration.
Nochevieja festivities include special dinners, street celebrations, concerts, and fireworks displays that extend well into New Year’s Day. Spanish New Year culture emphasizes family gatherings, traditional foods, and community celebrations that welcome the new year with optimism and joy.
Major cities offer special New Year events including concerts, public celebrations, and cultural activities that showcase regional traditions while embracing contemporary celebration styles. These festive events provide perfect opportunities to experience Spanish hospitality and celebration culture.
Conclusion
Spain’s extraordinary calendar of events in 2025 offers unparalleled opportunities to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage, contemporary creativity, and legendary celebration spirit. From ancient traditional festivals like Las Fallas and Semana Santa to cutting-edge music festivals like Primavera Sound and Sónar, Spain continues to demonstrate why it remains one of the world’s premier cultural tourism destinations. The year 2025 presents special significance with milestone celebrations including Montserrat Abbey’s 1000th anniversary and Segovia Cathedral’s 500th anniversary, alongside the designation of Alicante as Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy. Whether seeking the adrenaline rush of San Fermín, the artistic brilliance of Spanish art festivals, the culinary excellence of gastronomic events, or the community spirit of regional celebrations, Spain’s festivals and events provide authentic cultural experiences that create lasting memories. The diversity of Spanish celebrations ensures that every traveler can find events that match their interests, from traditional religious festivals to contemporary international music events, making Spain an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand European festival culture at its most vibrant and authentic.
