The July 2025 calendar in Spain is an excellent opportunity to explore the activities, festivities, and special days that will mark this significant month in the country. This article will cover an overview of what to expect in terms of events, national holidays, and how summer in Spain offers a unique experience for residents and tourists.
July in Spain is synonymous with summer. It is the month when temperatures reach their peak, beaches fill up with visitors, and cities and towns celebrate some of their most important festivities. With its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and deep-rooted traditions, Spain becomes a favorite tourist destination during this month. In addition to local holidays and festivities, the month of July is also relevant from a work, political, and social perspective. Below, we will explore the key events that mark the July 2025 calendar.
Weather and summer holidays
In July, the weather in Spain is hot, especially in the south and inland parts of the country. Temperatures in cities such as Seville or Cordoba can easily exceed 40°C, while on the coasts, such as in Barcelona or Malaga, the heat is more bearable thanks to the sea breeze. The month is ideal for enjoying the beaches, but it is also a month when the country's inhabitants and tourists travel to rural or mountain areas to escape the intense heat.
School holidays are in full swing across the country, meaning that children and young people alike are enjoying their free time. Families are often travelling to tourist destinations both within and outside Spain, and holiday resorts are packed with local and international tourists.
Key Holidays and Events
1. Navarre Constitution Day (July 6)
This day is a public holiday in the Autonomous Community of Navarre, celebrating the promulgation of the Constitution of Navarre in 1839. Although it is not a national holiday, it is a significant date for the people of Navarre, who celebrate with institutional events and local festivities in cities such as Pamplona.
2. San Fermin Festival (July 6-14)
One of the most well-known festivals in Spain is the San Fermin festival, held in Pamplona, Navarra, from July 6 to 14. This world-famous festival is known for its running of the bulls, in which participants run in front of the bulls. However, San Fermin is much more than just a bull run. The city fills with music, dancing, religious processions, and of course, food and drink. Although the festival is associated with the danger of running of the bulls, it is also a celebration of Navarrese and Spanish culture.
3. Feast of the Virgin of Carmen (July 16)
July 16 is the Day of the Virgin of Carmen, a religious holiday celebrated with great devotion in the coastal areas of Spain, especially at sea. The Virgin of Carmen is the patron saint of sailors and fishermen, so the festivities usually include processions by sea and events in ports. In cities such as Malaga, Cadiz and Barcelona, religious offerings and celebrations are held to honor the Virgin.
4. The Bonfires of San Juan (June 24 to June 29, with celebrations continuing into July)
Although the festival of Las Hogueras de San Juan begins on June 24, many of its celebrations extend into early July. This festival, which is especially popular in the Valencian Community and the Balearic Islands, has as its highlight the burning of large cardboard and wooden figures, known as "hogueras". The festivities include fireworks, live music and parades, creating a festive atmosphere in coastal towns.
5. Festival of the Vaquilla del Ángel (July 6-9)
In Teruel, Aragon, the Fiesta de la Vaquilla del Ángel is celebrated, which takes place from July 6 to 9. This traditional festival is famous for its parades, bullfighting events, and popular activities. The heifer is a symbol of the festivity, and the event attracts thousands of tourists every year. During this festival, various competitions, live music, and a host of activities take place that showcase the cultural richness of the region.
6. Malaga Fair (from July 18 to 26)
The Malaga Fair is one of the most important festivals in southern Spain. Held in honour of the Virgin of Victory, the fair spans over a week and offers a mix of traditional and modern events. From flamenco concerts to bullfights and fireworks, the Malaga Fair is an event to enjoy local culture, gastronomy and music. This festival attracts both locals and tourists, making it one of the main celebrations on the Costa del Sol.
St. James' Day (July 25)
July 25 is Santiago Day, a religious holiday celebrating Saint James the Apostle, the patron saint of Spain. In many cities, especially in Galicia, processions are held in honour of Saint James, and the day is considered a public holiday. In Santiago de Compostela, the Galician capital, special events are held, including the famous "pilgrim's mass", which is a tradition of great cultural and religious importance. In addition, the holiday is marked by various cultural and musical events, making the city a meeting point for pilgrims and tourists.
Cultural activities and festivals
1. Santander International Music Festival (July)
The Santander International Music Festival is one of the most prominent cultural events in Spain during the month of July. This festival brings together internationally renowned musicians and offers a variety of concerts of classical music, jazz, and other genres. It attracts visitors from all over the world and is a great way to enjoy high-quality music while taking in the city's coastal surroundings.
2. Almagro Classical Theatre Festival (early July)
The Almagro Classical Theatre Festival is one of the most important events for theatre lovers in Spain. This event, held in the town of Almagro, in Ciudad Real, presents classic works by authors such as Lope de Vega, Calderón de la Barca and other playwrights of the Golden Age. For several weeks, the city becomes an open-air theatre stage, with performances that attract thousands of tourists.
Outdoor activities
July in Spain is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities. From nature excursions, hikes in the Pyrenees or the mountains of Cantabria, to water sports on the Mediterranean coast, July is a month to enjoy the geographical diversity of the country.
In addition to the beaches, cities also host outdoor activities, such as concerts in public squares, open-air cinema, and gastronomic routes that allow visitors to discover the rich local cuisine.
The July 2025 calendar in Spain is packed with events and celebrations that reflect the country’s rich culture and traditions. From religious festivals to popular celebrations such as San Fermin and the Malaga Fair, this month offers a mix of activities to suit all tastes. Whether it’s enjoying the sunshine on the coast, taking part in a local festival, or exploring the cultural offerings, July in Spain is a month full of energy and tradition.