Spain is a country renowned for its vibrant culture, passionate people, and rich traditions. Throughout the year, the streets of Spain come alive with colourful festivals, blending religious ceremonies, cultural celebrations, and pure fun. Here are 10 unmissable festivals that capture the heart and spirit of this beautiful country.

1. La Tomatina (Buñol)

La Tomatina Festival

Held annually in the town of Buñol, La Tomatina is one of Spain’s most famous festivals. On the last Wednesday of August, thousands of people gather to participate in the world’s largest food fight, throwing overripe tomatoes at one another. While the event only lasts an hour, the streets of Buñol are transformed into a sea of red, making it an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists alike.

When: Last Wednesday of August
Where: Buñol, Valencia

2. Running of the Bulls (San Fermín)

Running of The Bulls Festival

The Running of the Bulls, or San Fermín, is one of Spain’s most iconic and adrenaline-fueled festivals. Held in Pamplona, it involves participants running alongside bulls through the city’s narrow streets. The festival, rooted in tradition, is held in honour of Saint Fermín, the patron saint of Pamplona, and features music, fireworks, and parades.

When: July 6-14
Where: Pamplona, Navarra

3. Las Fallas (Valencia)

Las Fallas Festival Before The Burning of The Sculptures

Las Fallas is a fiery celebration in Valencia where massive, artistic sculptures (called “Fallas”) are paraded through the streets before being set ablaze in a spectacular display. The festival celebrates Saint Joseph, and its combination of art, fire, and fireworks makes it a sensory overload that draws crowds from around the world.

When: March 15-19
Where: Valencia

4. La Feria de Abril (Seville)

La Feria de Abril, Seville

La Feria de Abril in Seville is a week-long festival of flamenco, food, and dancing. The city transforms into a lively party, with colourful tents, or “casitas,” set up throughout the fairgrounds. People dress in traditional attire, with women wearing flamenco dresses and men donning suits, while the streets are filled with horse-drawn carriages and lively music.

When: Two weeks after Easter
Where: Seville, Andalusia

5. Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Women and girls carrying the paso with the statue of the Virgin Mary. The Holy Mother’s paso is sometimes called a trono or throne.

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a religious festival celebrated across Spain, with particularly stunning processions in cities like Seville, Málaga, and Granada. Large, ornate floats depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ are carried through the streets, accompanied by participants in traditional robes. The sombre, spiritual atmosphere, along with the grandeur of the processions, makes this one of Spain’s most important festivals.

When: Week leading up to Easter Sunday
Where: Nationwide, with notable celebrations in Seville, Málaga, and Granada

6. Carnival (Tenerife & Cádiz)

Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Carnival in Spain is an explosion of colour, music, and dance. While many cities celebrate Carnival, the largest and most vibrant festivities can be found in Tenerife (Canary Islands) and Cádiz (Andalusia). The streets are filled with elaborate costumes, parades, and non-stop parties, making it Spain’s version of Mardi Gras. Tenerife’s Carnival is especially known for its grand parades, while Cádiz is famous for its witty and satirical performances.

When: February (dates vary)
Where: Tenerife and Cádiz

7. La Mercè (Barcelona)

Castellers from Sagrada Família, Poble Sec and Barcelona make human towers during La Mercè 

La Mercè is Barcelona’s largest street festival, held in honor of the city’s patron saint, Our Lady of Mercy. The festival features a variety of cultural events, including human tower-building (castells), fire-runs (correfocs), and music performances. It’s a fantastic way to experience Catalan culture and see the city come alive with energy and tradition.

When: September 24 (festivities last several days)
Where: Barcelona

8. Fiesta de San Juan (Alicante)

The Fiesta de San Juan is celebrated in many parts of Spain, but the largest festivities take place in Alicante. This lively summer festival marks the beginning of summer with bonfires, fireworks, and beach parties. Traditionally, people jump over the bonfires to purify their sins and ensure good fortune for the year ahead.

When: June 23-24
Where: Alicante, Valencia

9. Romería de El Rocío (Huelva)

The Pilgrimage of El Rocío

One of Spain’s most significant pilgrimages, the Romería de El Rocío, draws hundreds of thousands of participants each year. Pilgrims travel on foot, horseback, or decorated carts to the village of El Rocío, where they pay homage to the Virgin of El Rocío. The journey is filled with music, dancing, and a deep sense of spirituality, making it a unique cultural and religious experience.

When: Pentecost (50 days after Easter)
Where: El Rocío, Huelva

10. Fiesta de la Vendimia (La Rioja)

Grape Stomping at the Fiesta de la Vendimia Festival

Celebrating the grape harvest, the Fiesta de la Vendimia is a must for wine lovers. Held in La Rioja, Spain’s most famous wine region, this festival is dedicated to all things wine-related, with grape stomping, wine tastings, and parades filling the streets. It’s a great opportunity to learn about Spain’s wine culture while indulging in some of the country’s finest vintages.

When: Late September
Where: La Rioja

Spain’s festivals offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural tapestry, each one unique in its traditions, customs, and celebrations. Whether you’re dancing the night away at La Feria de Abril, throwing tomatoes at La Tomatina, or sipping wine at the Fiesta de la Vendimia, these festivals are unmissable experiences that capture the spirit of Spain.

Visit our website and discover exclusive flight, hotel, and package deals for Spain!