Pamplona

As the third largest city in Spain, Valencia is a vibrant and colourful metropolis located on the  country's sunny east coast. With its vibrant beaches, delicious paella (where the famous dish originated from), and stunning architecture, Valencia is the perfect place to explore and have some fun!

Valencia

Spain is famous for its friendly inhabitants, relaxed lifestyle, its cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and world-famous folklore and festivities, and its history as the core of the vast Spanish Empire. The most popular beaches are the ones along the Mediterranean coast and on the Canary Islands. Meanwhile, for hiking, the mountains of Sierra Nevada in the south, the Central Cordillera and the northern Pyrenees are the best places. Historically, Spain has been an important crossroads: between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, between North Africa and Europe, and as Europe began colonizing the New World, between Europe and the Americas. As such, the country is blessed with a fantastic collection of historical landmarks. The Spanish are very passionate about their cuisine, based on great food and wine. Spanish food can be described as quite light with a lot of vegetables and a huge variety of meat and fish.

Spain

Seville

Andalusia's cultural treasures make it a strong tourist attraction. It's economy - badly hurt by the latest economic crisis - is mainly based on tourism and is supported by agriculture and livestock breeding.

Andalusia has made its mark on Spain's fine arts, literature and theatre. The art and architecture of this region best shows what southern Spain was like during the Moorish rule. Come see the cultural heritage in Andalusia for yourself, an area where Christians, Jews and Muslims coexisted peacefully for a long time.

Andalusia

Haro

Oak and beech forests situated at high altitudes give way to olive trees as one travels towards the plains and hills of the north. Small villages perched high in the mountains, seemingly outside of time, are ideal rest spots for visitors who wish to visit its hidden corners. Lastly, the historical legacy of La Rioja is far from insignificant: the zone is host to a number of monasteries classed as world heritage sites, including one known for having been the home of the first poet in history to write in the Castilian language.

Rioja

Buñol

Community of Valencia

Baztan

Chartered Community of Navarre

Having already suggested a few things and places that shouldn’t be missed while in Madrid, I guess it’s now time to discuss the famous Spanish fiestas and celebrations that impressively take place all over the country! 

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Yes, I agree, Madrid is the capital and I’m kinda obsessed with it since I live here…but Spain is the country of fiestas and festivals, so there are multiple places that are definitely worth visiting! There are numerous Spanish festivals held throughout the whole year, so there're plenty of reasons to search out for a local festival in Spain. Many festivals in Spain are specific to certain towns and regions, offering a huge variety in local specialties, trades, and cultural quirks. The biggest festivals of international fame are the bull running of Pamplona, the fireworks of Las Fallas in Valencia, and la Semana Santa in Andalucia. Bullfighting, flamenco, traditional choirs, paellas, and wine are the basic constituents of those celebrations!

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# Check them out in detail in the page below!



### Experience the Spectacle of The Holy Week in Sevilla

If you're looking for a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience, look no further than The Holy Week (Semana Santa) in Sevilla, Spain. This annual festival, celebrated in the week leading up to Easter, is a sight to behold and a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the city.

### A Week of Processions and Religious Celebrations

The Holy Week in Sevilla is a week-long extravaganza filled with processions and other religious celebrations. The city comes alive as the brotherhoods of the most important churches spend months in advance preparing for this grand event. The result is a solemn and awe-inspiring experience that attracts visitors from all over the world.

### The Processions

The highlight of The Holy Week in Sevilla is the procession of pasos, which are lifelike wooden sculptures depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ or images of the grieving Virgin Mary. These pasos are carried through the streets by dozens of men and women, flanked by hundreds of candles. It is a truly mesmerizing sight to see these beautifully crafted sculptures being paraded through the city.

### The Brotherhoods and Cofradías

The processions are organized by hermandades and cofradías, religious brotherhoods that have been a part of Sevilla's history for centuries. These brotherhoods play a significant role in the festivities, with members dressed in penitential robes and tall, pointed hoods known as capirotes. The capirotes were designed to allow the faithful to repent in anonymity, without being recognized as self-confessed sinners.

### Historical Significance and Architectural Features

The Holy Week in Sevilla has deep historical and cultural significance. The pasos, with their intricate carvings and decorations, are a testament to the artistic craftsmanship of the city. Some of these sculptures date back to the 16th century, while new ones continue to be added. The processions follow a designated route from the home-churches and chapels to the cathedral, passing through central viewing areas and back. The climax of the week is the night of Holy Thursday, known as the madrugá, when the processions set out to arrive at the cathedral on the dawn of Good Friday.

### When to Visit

If you're planning a trip to Sevilla, experiencing The Holy Week should be high on your list. The festival takes place during Easter, so the dates vary each year. It is advisable to check the exact dates before planning your visit. The city comes alive during this time, with locals and tourists alike gathering on the streets to witness the impressive processions. It's a truly immersive experience that will leave you in awe of the city's rich cultural heritage.

### Conclusion

The Holy Week in Sevilla is a must-see event for anyone visiting the city. The processions, the brotherhoods, and the rich historical significance make it a truly unique and captivating experience. Whether you are religious or not, witnessing The Holy Week in Sevilla will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, plan your trip accordingly and prepare to be amazed by the grandeur and beauty of this extraordinary festival.

The Holy Week (Semana Santa) in Sevilla

Around the middle of March, an explosive party takes place in Valencia city! Forget everything you have seen before, because in no other place of the world do they celebrate an event that is more fascinating than the Fallas.
 
For an entire week, gigantic, colourful statues and figures fill the city's squares and streets. They are often satirical and reference political or pop-culture events that happened throughout the year, but each and every one of them is impressive. Walking the Fallas route is one of the most interesting ways to discover the city.

The Fallas of Valencia

Ever felt like throwing a tomato to someone? At the Tomatina in Buñol you can! This crazy tradition started 70 years ago, and now on every last Wednesday of August, thousands of people throw tomatoes at each other during the funnest event of the year.
 
La Tomatina is actually part of a larger celebration; it marks the end of an entire week of parades, parties, fairs and street markets. It is so original and so fun that people visit Spain just to take part in it. The number of participants is limited to 20,000, which seems a lot but tickets are sold out in a flash. So if you want to go crazy in Buñol, make sure to get your tickets well in advance!

La Tomatina

### Experience the Vibrant Celebration of La Feria de Sevilla in Seville

Seville, the capital of Andalusia in southern Spain, is a city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. And there is no better time to experience the true essence of Seville than during La Feria de Sevilla, also known as the April Fair of Sevilla. Despite its name, this lively celebration actually takes place in May, immediately following Semana Santa (Holy Week).

### A Week of Festivities and Flamenco

La Feria de Sevilla is a week-long extravaganza filled with entertainment, colors, and the best of Andalusian art. The fair kicks off with the traditional lighting of the entrance to the fairgrounds at midnight, marking the beginning of a week filled with joy and celebration. The entire city of Seville comes alive with an authentic Spanish festive atmosphere.

### Flamenco Performances and Spontaneous Revelry

As the night falls, the streets of Seville come alive with spontaneous flamenco performances that pop up on every corner. The passionate rhythms and soulful melodies of this traditional Spanish dance captivate both locals and visitors alike. It's an experience that cannot be adequately described with words; you have to witness it firsthand to truly understand its magic.

### The Spectacle of the Fairgrounds

The fair takes place in a massive fairground known as the "Real de la Feria," covering an impressive 450,000 square meters. The fairground includes an amusement park, Calle de Infierno (Hell Street), and 24 blocks of casetas, striped tents that house various activities and celebrations. These casetas belong to local families, groups of friends, businesses, clubs, trade associations, and political parties.

### Traditional Carriages and Bullfights

During the fair, Seville society parades around the fairground in carriages or on horseback, creating a spectacle of elegance and tradition. The fair also features daily bullfights, which are considered some of the best of the season. For those seeking an authentic cultural experience, witnessing a bullfight is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history and traditions of Spain.

### Indulge in Delicious Food and Drinks

Inside the casetas, the festivities continue with an abundance of food and drinks. Each caseta is equipped with a bar and kitchen, serving traditional Spanish tapas and refreshing beverages. From midday until the early hours of the morning, visitors can indulge in the flavors of Andalusian cuisine while enjoying live entertainment and the lively atmosphere.

### When to Visit

The dates for La Feria de Sevilla vary each year but typically fall in the first or second week of May. It is advisable to check with the Seville town hall for the confirmed dates. Planning your visit during this time allows you to witness Seville at its most vibrant and experience the unique cultural traditions that make this fair so special.

### Conclusion

La Feria de Sevilla is a celebration that encapsulates the spirit of Seville. From the flamenco performances to the elegant carriages and the mouthwatering cuisine, this fair offers a truly immersive experience into the rich cultural heritage of Andalusia. Whether you are a lover of history, architecture, or simply seeking a lively and unforgettable celebration, La Feria de Sevilla is an event not to be missed. So mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities of Seville's April Fair!

La Ferria de Sevilla (April Fair of Sevilla)

### Experience the Exuberant Haro Wine Festival in La Rioja

If you're a wine lover and a fan of unique cultural experiences, then the Haro Wine Festival in Haro, La Rioja, Spain is an event that should be on your travel wish list. This lively fiesta, known as the Battle of the Wine or Batalla del Vino, is a celebration of the wine harvest and takes place on Saint Peter's Day, which falls on June 29th every year.

### A Historical Tradition

The roots of the Haro Wine Festival can be traced back to the 6th century when the neighboring village of Miranda del Ebro and the residents of Haro were in dispute over town lines incorporating the nearby mountains. Today, this festival has become a symbol of unity and a way to celebrate the rich wine-making heritage of the region.

### Wine Warfare

The highlight of the Haro Wine Festival is the chaotic and spectacular Battle of the Wine. On the morning of June 29th, the population of Haro swells as locals and visitors gather to participate in this unique event. Most combatants don the traditional red and white garb and follow the mayor of Haro on a 7km procession to the Hermitage of San Felices.

### A Splash of Red

Once at the Hermitage, a flag is ceremoniously located, and a short mass is held. Then, the real fun begins as participants engage in a red, wet carnage, drenching each other with wine. Buckets, cups, bottles, jugs, and even water pistols are used as vessels for the wine. It's a messy, wet, and sticky affair, but the exuberance and joy of the participants make it an unforgettable experience.

### Explore Haro's Wine Heritage

Haro itself is renowned for its fine red Rioja wine and is home to many prestigious bodegas. The town accounts for a substantial proportion of all Riojas produced, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. Take the opportunity to explore the local wineries, indulge in wine tastings, and learn about the winemaking process.

### Architectural Charm

Aside from its wine heritage, Haro also boasts a rich architectural and cultural heritage. The picturesque buildings and small winding streets of the old town were declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1975 by the Spanish government. Stroll through the charming streets, admire the well-preserved architecture, and soak in the town's unique atmosphere.

### When to Visit

The Haro Wine Festival takes place from the 28th to the 30th of June each year, with the main focus being the Battle of the Wine on the 29th. If you're planning to attend, make sure to wear old clothes that you don't mind getting stained with wine. It's a good idea to book accommodation in advance, as the town gets crowded during the festival.

### Conclusion

The Haro Wine Festival in Haro, La Rioja, is a one-of-a-kind experience that combines wine, culture, and exuberant celebration. From the chaotic Battle of the Wine to exploring the town's wine heritage and architectural charm, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit to coincide with this lively festival and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Haro.

Haro Wine Festival

This is probably Spain’s most famous festival, and is a magnet for thrill-seekers and spectators alike. Hundreds of thousands of Spanish and international visitors don white shirts and red bandanas for some serious partying. The bravest (or most foolhardy) line up to engage in a mad dash ahead of rampaging bulls careering through narrow cobbled streets. Luckily the runners have a newspaper to protect themselves with. By night the squares are strung with fairy lights for drinking, eating and dancing; there are fireworks and brass bands.

Running of the Bulls (Fiesta de San Fermín)

### Experience the Thrill of The Arizkun Carnival in Arizcun

If you're looking for a unique and thrilling experience, look no further than the Arizkun Carnival, also known as "Jumping the bonfire." This ancient tradition takes place in the charming town of Arizcun, nestled in the picturesque Basque Country of Spain. Every year, thousands of people gather in the streets to witness and participate in this mesmerizing event.

### A Tradition Rooted in History

Dating back to pagan times, the Arizkun Carnival holds deep historical significance. The tradition of jumping over bonfires is believed to bring fertility and ward off evil spirits. It is a celebration of the changing seasons and a way to ensure a prosperous year ahead. The locals of Arizcun take great pride in preserving this age-old custom, passing it down from generation to generation.

### The Festive Atmosphere

As the last weekend of February approaches, the town of Arizcun comes alive with energy and excitement. Locals and visitors alike gather in the streets, dressed in traditional costumes that instantly transport you to another time. Sheepskin coats adorned with black pots, maypole-style hats, and brushes create a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

### Jumping Over the Flames

As night falls, the bonfires are lit, casting a warm glow over the town. The brave participants line up, ready to take on the challenge of jumping over the flames. With each leap, they symbolically leave behind the darkness of winter and embrace the light of spring. The crowd cheers and applauds, creating an electrifying atmosphere that is hard to replicate.

### More Than Just Bonfire Jumping

The Arizkun Carnival is not just about jumping over bonfires. It is a time for locals and visitors to come together and celebrate. Throughout the carnival, you can witness colorful parades, listen to traditional music, and join in the lively dancing. The streets are filled with laughter, joy, and a sense of community that is truly infectious.

### Exploring Arizcun and Beyond

While the Arizkun Carnival is undoubtedly the highlight of a visit to Arizcun, there is much more to explore in this charming town. Take a stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional Basque houses, adorned with colorful balconies and intricate woodwork. Visit the Church of San Esteban, a beautiful example of Basque Gothic architecture, and immerse yourself in the town's rich history.

If you have more time to spare, venture out into the surrounding countryside. Arizcun is located in the stunning Baztan Valley, known for its lush green landscapes, picturesque villages, and hiking trails. Explore the nearby caves of Zugarramurdi, known for their historical significance and mystical atmosphere.

### When to Visit

To experience the Arizkun Carnival in all its glory, plan your visit during the last weekend of February. This is when the town truly comes alive, and you can witness this ancient tradition firsthand. Be sure to book your accommodation well in advance, as this popular event attracts visitors from near and far.

### Create Lasting Memories

The Arizkun Carnival in Arizcun offers a unique and thrilling experience that will leave you with lasting memories. From jumping over bonfires to immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture, this ancient tradition is a must-see for any traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of the carnival, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Arizkun Carnival (Jumping the bonfire)

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Spain, the country of fiestas and festivals!

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As most of us here, I am also passionate with traveling! Nature lover, winter sports addict and Erasmus obsessed, I definitely love working on mobility projects that promote traveling and living abroad as a local! As a result, I do travel a lot and yes, I do have to move every time. Adapting myself into different environments has undoubtedly helped me grow to the multicultural soul I am today. As Parov Stellar says, “I am a traveller momma, I am gonna follow the sun.” Being a native Greek living in Spain, “following the sun” is definitely something I pursue. With a strong background in Communication, Media, and English studies, I am now officially one of itinari’s editors in chief, advising, supervising and editing articles daily before having them published in our platform.

Spain, the country of fiestas and festivals!

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