Holidays & Festivals
Spain is known for its lavish and exciting festivals and unique holiday traditions. From Semana Santa to traditional ferias in the South, there's never a dull moment in Spain.
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Below you'll find a variety of resources to explore these cultural traditions along with a guided reflection on Semana Santa (Spain's Easter holiday celebration).
Remember, you can always check out the Reflections section if you'd like to submit a creative reflection on any other holiday or festival.
Learn about Semana Santa and the unique cultural traditions practiced during this holy week.
Homestay / El Faro activity
What are the typical festivals or holiday traditions in their home town? How do they celebrate them?
Submit a creative reflection!
Ask your host family or Spanish friends...
Spanish Holiday Traditions
Semana Santa
April 5 - April 12, 2020
(dates change anualy)
Semana Santa (Holy Week) is the biggest religious celebration of the year in Spain. The traditions date back to the 16th century and are still celebrated to this day all throughout Spain.
Art Exhibits
Check out the following link(s) to art exhibits that represent this tradition:
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10 fundamental art pieces related to Semana Santa (in Spanish)
Dos de Mayo
May 2nd (anual)
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"On the 2nd of May every year, the city of Madrid celebrates one of their most important historical achievements – the Dos de Mayo, in remembrance of the city’s victory over Napoleon’s invasion back in 1808. This is a public holiday in the community of Madrid that the inhabitants of the city celebrate through parades, concerts and sports." - TandemMadrid
Art Exhibits
Check out the following link(s) to art exhibits that represent this tradition:
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San Isidro
May 15 (anual)
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"One of the most celebrated holidays of Madrid is held on May 15, the Feast Day of San Isidro who is the city's patron saint as well as the patron saint of farmers. The traditional festival and feast are held in an open-air area known as the Pradera del Santo." - GoMadrid.com
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Art Exhibits
PC: Carlos Rosillo
PC: J.P. GANDÚL
PC: KIKE PARA