Under the atmosphere of summer, Madrid welcomes visitors and please Madrilenians with many festivals in a mild weather with sunny days – just a great condition to go out and explore the city with numerous of cultural activities.
Get your sunglass and immerse yourself under green foliages on the lawn with your newly purchased book in Retiro Park, excited in thrilling bullfights in Las Ventas, admire a flamenco show – one of the art climax and more.
1. Feria del Libro (Book Fair)
- When: May 25 to June 6
- Where: Retiro Park
This year 2018, Madrid is glad to hold the book fair for the 77th edition. The first edition was held in 1933 on a boulevard in the central Madrid. Around 30 years later, with the large demand from distributors, booksellers and suppliers, the book fair then is moved to Retiro Park – the peaceful oasis and one of the biggest park in the city of Madrid with the area of 1.4 km2.
Visiting Retiro Park during the time of book fair, visitors can take many advantages of special discounts for books not only in Spanish but also some other languages. Do your research and find out stands where famous writers sign their books. The slogan of Feria del Libro this year is “Read to know, read to imagine.” The book fair opens at 11 am and ends at 9.30 every day with a “siesta” (afternoon nap). For more information, please visit the official website.
2. San Siro Festival – Bullfighting
- When: May 8 to June 10
- Where: Las Ventas – the most important and biggest bullring in Spain
Standard bullfight season of Madrid is from March to the middle of October, but the most important battles with the best matadors in the world are saved for San Siro Festival during May – June. Get a chance to admire the matadors and watch a live battle! Do not miss out this dangerous and cultural-sports activity of Spain during your trip. For schedule and tickets, please visit the official website of Las Ventas.
3. Suma Flamenca Festival
- When: June 5 to June 24
- Where: Various theatres and venues, including Teatros del Canal, Real Coliseo de Carlos III, Café Berlín Madrid, etc.
Suma Flamenca has become one of the most important flamenco festivals worldwide since it has started in 2005. Throughout the history, it has represented the most well-known flamenco artists and become a bridge, connecting more than 200 emerging guitar players, singers and dancers to the public. Most well-known flamenco artists such as Farruquito and José Maya, Manuel Lombo, Antonio Rey & Grupo, Mayte Martín, El Cabrero and many more will perform during this festival, promises an unforgettable experience for audience.
Fun fact: Flamenco is recognized by UNESCO in 2010 as the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Suma Flamenca festival is organized by the Community of Madrid. As a result, it takes place in various venues throughout the city. For program, location and tickets, please visit the official website.
4. PHotoESPAÑA
- When: June 6 to August 26
- Where: various museums, halls, art galleries
PHotoESPAÑA is a visual arts and photography event, which was taken place in Madrid for the first time in 1997. Nowadays, the event holds a national and international position for art lovers. In the 21st edition, the event presents about 100 exhibitions by more than 500 artists. Over 20 activities for the professionals and public are held in 62 venues in Madrid during three-month event. For more details, please visit the official website.
5. Madrid Pride 2018
- When: June 28 to July 7
- Where: Chueca neighborhood and Paseo del Prado
In the effort for diversity and freedom, Madrid is working hard to become the world leader for equality and rights for LGBTIQ. In 2018, Madrid celebrates the 40th anniversary of Madrid Pride Festival with lots of entertaining activities besides the parade, which takes place on July 2017 on Paseo del Prado – one of Madrid’s main streets. Over two million attendees are expected to join the climax of this wonderful festival.
Within the frame of the event, visitors could find Pride Park, where host vendors and associations of LGBTIQ and human rights worldwide are held. There is open space for individuals as well. Different activities as music, dance, theatre, fine arts, together with sports competitions are organized will color the city with diversity.
Accommodation in Madrid
Stay in one of our new apartments in Madrid, Latina Nature apartment – a cozy and functional apartment, located next to stops of public transportation and tourist bus Hop-On Hop-Off.
Plan to visit Madrid in June? Visit Habitat Apartments for the full list of holiday apartments in Madrid.
