Top Cultural Festivals in Spain: Events Not to Miss in 2025

Spain is a country renowned for its vibrant culture, deep-rooted traditions, and lively cultural festivals that offer travelers an immersive experience into its rich heritage. For those seeking a cultural vacation in Spain, 2025 presents a calendar brimming with events that promise unforgettable memories. From religious processions to flamboyant fairs, each festival provides a unique insight into the Spanish way of life. Here are some of the top cultural festivals in Spain that you shouldn’t miss in 2025.

Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Dates: April 13th to April 20th, 2025

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is one of Spain’s most significant religious observances, commemorating the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Celebrated nationwide, the week leading up to Easter Sunday is marked by solemn processions, intricate floats, and participants donning traditional penitential robes.

Seville’s Semana Santa Cultural festivals

Seville’s Holy Week is particularly renowned for its elaborate processions and deeply rooted traditions. From Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, various brotherhoods (hermandades) parade through the city streets, carrying ornate pasos (floats) depicting scenes from the Passion. The atmosphere is a blend of mourning and reverence, with the haunting sounds of saetas (flamenco-style laments) adding to the ambiance. The city’s narrow streets and historic backdrop make Seville’s Semana Santa a profound experience for visitors.

Mula’s Tamboradas  Cultural festivals

In the town of Mula, located in the Murcia region, Semana Santa is celebrated with the resonant sound of drums during the “Noche de los Tambores” (Night of the Drums). This UNESCO-recognized tradition sees thousands gather to play drums in unison, creating a powerful and immersive auditory experience. The event is a testament to the town’s rebellious spirit and cultural pride.

Las Fallas de Valencia cultural festivals

Dates: March 13th to March 19th, 2025

Las Fallas is a spectacular festival held in Valencia to honor Saint Joseph. The city becomes an open-air art gallery, showcasing enormous ninots (satirical effigies) made of papier-mâché. These intricate sculptures are displayed throughout the city before being set ablaze on the final night, known as La Cremà. The festival is accompanied by fireworks, traditional music, and locals dressed in elaborate regional attire.

Feria de Abril (April Fair) in Seville cultural festivals

Dates: May 4th to May 10th, 2025

Following the solemnity of Semana Santa, Seville bursts into celebration with the Feria de Abril. This week-long fair is characterized by casetas (decorated tents), flamenco dancing, horse parades, and traditional Andalusian cuisine. Locals and visitors alike don traditional attire, with women in vibrant flamenco dresses and men in traje corto (short jackets and hats). The fairgrounds become a lively hub of music, dance, and festivity, offering an authentic taste of Andalusian culture.

Córdoba Patios Festival cultural festivals

Dates: May 2025 (Exact dates to be confirmed)

Every May, Córdoba opens its private courtyards to the public during the Patios Festival. Residents adorn their patios with a stunning array of flowers, creating a visual feast of colors and fragrances. This tradition celebrates the architectural heritage of the city and fosters community spirit. Visitors can wander through the historic quarters, enjoying live music and sampling local delicacies.

San Fermín (Running of the Bulls) in Pamplona cultural festivals

Dates: July 6th to July 14th, 2025

San Fermín is globally renowned for the adrenaline-charged Running of the Bulls. Each morning, brave participants run ahead of a group of bulls through the narrow streets of Pamplona. Beyond the run, the festival includes traditional music, dance, and a vibrant display of Navarrese culture. It’s essential for visitors to prioritize safety and be well-informed if considering participation.

La Tomatina in Buñol cultural festivals

Date: August 27th, 2025

La Tomatina is a playful and messy festival where participants engage in a massive tomato fight. Held in the town of Buñol, thousands gather to throw overripe tomatoes at each other purely for entertainment. The event is preceded by music, dancing, and parades, making it a unique and joyous celebration.

Feria de Málaga cultural festivals

Dates: August 16th to August 24th, 2025

The Feria de Málaga commemorates the incorporation of Málaga into the Crown of Castile. The city comes alive with street parties, traditional dances, and fireworks. During the day, festivities are centered in the historic city center, while the fairgrounds host nightly celebrations with music and amusement rides.