Children's festivities in Spain are a magical and special occasion, not only for the little ones but also for the whole family. Throughout the year, the country is filled with events designed specifically for children to enjoy unforgettable moments.
January
1. Three Kings Day (January 6)
Three Kings' Day is one of the most anticipated celebrations for children in Spain. The day before, January 5, Three Wise Men parades are organized in practically all the cities and towns of the country. The three Wise Men, Melchior, Gaspar and Baltasar, parade in floats handing out candy and small gifts. On January 6, the children wake up excited to open the gifts that the Three Wise Men have left during the night.
2. San Sebastian (January 20)
In San Sebastián, the Tamborrada is a festival that fills the streets with music and color. Although it is traditionally associated with adults, currently there is also a children's drum parade in which thousands of children participate, parading and playing drums through the streets of the city.
February
3. Carnival
Carnival is a festival full of costumes, parades and joy that is celebrated throughout Spain. The carnivals of Tenerife and Cádiz stand out especially, where the streets are filled with colorful costumes, floats and music. Children participate in costume contests, school parties and children's parades.
March
4. Fallas (March 15-19)
In Valencia, the Fallas are an impressive celebration where enormous papier-mâché monuments, the Fallas, are burned on the night of San José. During the festivities, children can enjoy parades, fireworks and the "mascletà", a spectacular series of firecracker explosions.
5. Tree Festival (March 21)
In many towns in Spain, the arrival of spring is celebrated with the Tree Festival. This festival has an educational and environmental nature, where children participate by planting trees and learning about the importance of taking care of nature.
April
6. Holy Week
Although Holy Week has a religious character, in many cities activities designed for children are organized. In Seville, for example, there are children's processions where children can dress as Nazarenes and participate in the brotherhoods.
7. April Fair (end of April)
In Seville, the April Fair is a spectacular event with booths, music, dancing and traditional costumes. During the fair, activities and attractions are organized for the little ones, including pony rides, carousels and games.
May
8. Mother's Day (first Sunday in May)
Mother's Day is a very special celebration in Spain. Children prepare gifts and crafts at school to surprise their mothers, and many families take advantage of the day to do activities together, such as going on a picnic or visiting theme parks.
9. May Crosses
In cities like Córdoba and Granada, the May Crosses festival fills the streets with flowers and joy. Decorated cross competitions are organized and children can participate in craft workshops, games and musical performances.
June
10. San Juan (June 23-24)
The night of San Juan is a magical celebration where bonfires are lit on beaches and squares throughout Spain. Children enjoy jumping over bonfires (carefully), making wishes and participating in games and activities by the sea.
11. Corpus Christi
In cities like Toledo and Granada, the Corpus Christi festival includes processions and cultural events. Children participate in parades and enjoy attractions such as the Tarasca, a parade of giant figures and big heads.
July
12. San Fermin (July 6-14)
In Pamplona, the Sanfermines are known for the running of the bulls, but there is also a special program for the little ones. Children can enjoy activities such as the children's running of the bulls, traditional games, puppet shows and fireworks.
13. Almagro International Classical Theater Festival
During the month of July, Almagro becomes the setting for this important festival, which includes theatrical performances and workshops for children, encouraging their interest in classical theater and culture.
August
14. La Tomatina (last Wednesday in August)
In Buñol, Valencia, the Tomatina is a unique festival where participants throw tomatoes at each other. Although it is mainly for adults, in the previous days activities and games are organized for children, making them participate in the fun.
15. San Lorenzo Festival (August 9-15)
In Huesca, the San Lorenzo Festival is an explosion of color and tradition. Children can enjoy giants and big heads, craft workshops, games and magic shows.
September
16. Mercè Festival (September 24)
In Barcelona, the Mercè Festival is a celebration full of activities for all ages. Children enjoy puppet shows, workshops, games, parades and the famous castellers (human towers).
17. Mobility Week
In many cities in Spain, Mobility Week promotes the use of sustainable transportation with educational activities for children. There are bicycle routes, games and workshops on road safety and the environment.
October
18. National Holiday of Spain (October 12)
Hispanic Heritage Day is celebrated throughout Spain with parades and official events. In Madrid, children can enjoy air shows, military parades and cultural activities.
19. Halloween (October 31)
Halloween has gained popularity in Spain in recent years. Children dress up and participate in parties, pumpkin workshops, and traditional "trick or treating" around the neighborhoods.
November
20. All Saints' Day (November 1)
All Saints' Day is a holiday to remember deceased loved ones. In some regions, such as Catalonia, it is celebrated with the tradition of "Castanyada", where children enjoy roasted chestnuts, panellets and sweet potatoes.
21. Children's and Youth Book Fair
In cities like Madrid and Barcelona, the Children's and Youth Book Fair is an event where children can meet their favorite authors, participate in writing and reading workshops, and enjoy activities related to the world of books.
December
22. Christmas
Christmas is a magical time for children in Spain. From the switching on of Christmas lights in early December to the arrival of the Three Wise Men on January 6, there are a multitude of activities. Children enjoy Christmas markets, nativity scenes, concerts, and the traditional Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinner.
23. New Year's Eve (December 31)
On December 31, families gather to say goodbye to the year. Although it is a celebration primarily for adults, children participate in the tradition of the 12 grapes, eating a grape for each stroke of midnight to bring good luck in the new year.
Spain, with its rich cultural diversity and love of traditions, is a perfect place for children to grow up surrounded by joy and festivities.