Do you like to party? Because...we do! You can’t visit Spain without experiencing
at least one Spanish fiesta!
That’s right, the Spaniards definitely know how to
throw a party! In fact, it’s quite likely that there’s a festival happening on
either a local, regional or national level during each and every day of the year!
We’ve decided to give you the scoop on four
of the most popular annual festivals in Spain.
Carnival
In terms of extravagance and over-the-top
fun, the Spanish Carnival atmosphere is only second to Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro.
This celebration lasts for several days, so if you stop in for the festivities
you are sure to experience parades, music, fun political parodies, and
elaborate costumes.
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via Flickr by Isidre Monreal |
When: At the end of February, during the few days leading up to Lent.
Where: This is a National festival, although Cadiz and Tenerife are
especially famous for their festivities.
San Fermin
Of course we can’t talk about Spanish
festivals and not mention San Fermin. This is also known as Running with the Bulls
and draws thousands of spectators and participants each year from all over the
world. Every morning during the festival at 8AM sharp the world’s bravest,
craziest and most daring run in front of a group of angry bulls. The running only lasts about 30 minutes as the kick-start to the rest of the day’s partying.
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via Flickr by Chris |
When: Early July
Where: Pamplona, which is the capital city of Navarra
Festa Major de Gràcia
This week long festival held in the small
community of Gràcia is a fun collaboration between attendees and locals. The
residents of Gràcia work for many months prior to the festival to create
beautiful handmade decorations that hang in the streets. Long tables are set up
during the day for attendees to enjoy lunch and board games, while at night
everyone enjoys outdoor concerts and lots of food!
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via Flickr by Jaume Meneses |
When: Approx. August 15th – 21st
Where: Barcelona
La Tomatina
While the origins of this festival are
unknown, nobody really cares! This festival is just a great excuse to
participate in what is perhaps the world’s largest, most fun, messiest food
fight. There are no winners in this fight...it’s just a really fun chance to
throw overripe tomatoes at friends, family and complete strangers!
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via Flickr by Graham McLellan |
When: 4th Wednesday in August
Where: Buñol, outside of Valencia