What Kind of Holidays Are in Spain?
Spain observes more than 10 national holidays every year, as well as many more regional and local holidays, festivals and events. During these holidays, many local businesses close and most people celebrate with widespread festivities, fireworks, processions and feasts.
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Types
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Some holidays in Spain commemorate important historical dates, including National Day on October 12, celebrating Columbus reaching the Americas. Most Spanish holidays, however, center on religious traditions, such as Semana Santa Holy Week prior to Easter and All Saints Day on November 1.
Schedules
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Holiday celebrations in Spain can last anywhere from one day, such as Dia del Trabajo or Labor Day on March 1, to a week or more. Celebrations during the Month of Ferias, for example, often involve as many as two weeks of bullfights, performances, fireworks, processions and parties.
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Features
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Holidays in Spain can be solemn and reverent, such as religious parades and processions leading up to Easter Sunday during Semana Santa Holy Week. Other holidays, like the San Juan on June 24, involve festive celebrations with beachside bonfires, musical concerts and more.
Regions
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Many holidays in Spain are celebrated regionally, such as the Feria de Malaga, held for 10 days every August around the city of Malaga and including everything from parades to fairs. The celebration of other holidays, like the San Isidro in May and June, vary from region to region.
Considerations
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In many parts of Spain, public offices and local businesses close for the celebration of local and national holidays. Museums, restaurants, bars and other attractions often remain open. Public and private transportation services are often reduced during holidays.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Paul Stevenson
