January is a month that marks the beginning of the year and is packed with festivities, traditions and events in Spain. With winter weather varying by region, from snow in the north to milder temperatures in the south, this month is ideal for enjoying Spanish customs. Below, we present a detailed calendar of what to expect in January 2025, from national holidays to cultural activities.
January 1 - New Year (national holiday)
The first day of the year is a day of rest and reflection after the New Year's Eve celebrations. Across the country, families and friends gather to enjoy traditional foods such as roast lamb, suckling pig or an abundance of seafood. In addition, most businesses and offices remain closed.
In Madrid and other big cities, some brave souls start the year by taking part in popular races, such as the San Silvestre Vallecana Internacional, which usually takes place on December 31 and culminates in celebrations.
January 5th - Three Kings Parade
The eve of the Three Kings is one of the most anticipated events of the month. The streets are filled with colorful parades known as the Cabalgatas de Reyes, where the three Wise Men throw candy and gifts to children. In cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Seville, these parades are spectacular, with elaborate floats and thousands of attendees.
January 6 - Three Kings Day (national holiday)
This day is one of the most important in the Christmas calendar in Spain. Families gather together to open the presents that the Three Wise Men have left during the night. It is also traditional to have the famous Roscón de Reyes for breakfast or as a snack, a sweet pastry decorated with candied fruit that contains a surprise inside.
January 7-15 - Winter Sales
Winter sales officially begin on January 7, the day after Epiphany. It's an opportunity for consumers to find great discounts on clothing, technology and other products. Big cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia are popular destinations for those looking to take advantage of these offers.
January 12 - San Sebastian Festival (Gipuzkoa villages)
Although San Sebastian is officially celebrated on January 20, many towns in the province of Gipuzkoa begin their celebrations a few days earlier. These festivities include drumming, processions and typical Basque cuisine.
January 20 - San Sebastian (local holiday in Donostia)
In Donostia-San Sebastián, this festival is particularly popular. The celebration begins at midnight on 19-20 January with the famous Tamborrada, a drum parade that runs through the main streets. Participants wear traditional costumes, and the event has a unique atmosphere that mixes music, culture and fun.
January in the Aragonese Pyrenees: Ski Season
January is a perfect month to enjoy skiing in Spain, especially in the Pyrenees. Resorts such as Formigal, Baqueira Beret and Cerler attract skiers from all over Europe thanks to their excellent weather conditions and services.
Cultural Events in January
January also offers a rich cultural offering. Among the most notable events are:
- Theatre and music: In cities like Madrid and Barcelona, theatres offer a wide variety of shows, from operas to musicals.
- Cinema: The beginning of the year is a good time to enjoy film festivals and cycles.
- Exhibitions: Museums such as the Prado Museum in Madrid or the Picasso Museum in Malaga have interesting temporary exhibitions.
Weather in Spain in January
The climate in January in Spain varies greatly depending on the region:
- North: Cold, rainy and snowy in mountainous areas.
- Center: Cold, with frost on the plateau.
- South and Canary Islands: More temperate, ideal for those looking to escape the harshest winter.
January in Spain is a month full of activity, tradition and opportunities to enjoy the best of the country. From family festivities to cultural and sporting events, there is something for everyone. Happy New Year!