Summer Festivals in Spain

Spain offers some of the most vibrant and remarkable opportunities to locals and tourists and across the globe. With that being said, there is no better time to experience Spain than during their biggest, most renowned summer festivals. Plan a trip accordingly and allow yourself the opportunity to become truly immersed in a culture as they celebrate the local way. Take a look below at four of the most unique festivals in Spain this summer.

1. Las Hogueras de San Juan

The Night of San Juan, otherwise known as “The Bonfires of Saint John” is a festival celebrated from June 20^th to June 29^th in the region of Alicante. The festival is thrown in honor of the summer solstice, marking the longest day of the year. Massive bonfires, which are meant to ward off evil spirits, are displayed throughout the days along with figurines which are burnt at midnight on the 24^th. Fireworks are emitted constantly throughout the days and nights as people travel to the beaches to join together, dance, and celebrate!

2. Fiesta de San Fermin

This festival, located in Pamplona begins at 12:00 pm July 6^th and runs until 12:00 am of July 14^th. It is held in honor of Saint Fermin and is definitely the most recognizable festival held in all of Spain. The festivals begins with the honorary launching of the “chupinazo” rocket, and vistors and locals take the time to dress up in all white with red handkerchiefs tired around their necks. The highlight event of the festival is the even known as the Encierro, or “the running of the bulls”. The festival offers everything from music, dancing, folkloric events, and great food for all

3. La Tomatina

This festival is a strange yet amazing experience of its own. Hosted in the town Bunol, the event takes place on the last Wednesday of August and has been going on for some 60+ years. The origin of the festival is still a mystery, even today! As the name suggests, the festival involves essentially a giant tomato fight in the streets. It’s essentially one giant food fight in the streets of Spain that thousands of locals and tourists alike partake in. Lasting about an hour, be sure to wear clothes you aren’t afraid to get rid of after this messy day!

4. Festa Major de Gracia

Festa Major de Gracia, is a festival located in Barcelona running from August 15^th to the 21^st. Gracia is an area located in uptown Barcelona that was once a separated independent town until the late 19^th century. In order to keep their spirit strong, the streets are decorated during this week and there are competitions to see which street is decorated best. Overall, it’s a great environment for friends and family to enjoy a beautiful culture, live music, and great food.