Reyes Magos (Epiphany)
January
Marked by a procession of the ‘the kings' with commercial floats.
City centre

Carnaval (Carnival)
February
Procession, masked ball and cultural events, culminating in the ritual Burial of the Sardine in the church of San Antonio de la Florida.
Plaza Mayor

Semana Santa (Holy Week)
Week leading to Easter
Solemn religious processions and services.
Throughout the city

Fiesta del 2 de Mayo (Festival of 2 May)
2 May
Marks the day when Madrid rose up against the French in 1808, with films, poetry recitals, concerts and dance.
Various venues

Festival Flamenco
May
Flamenco dancing competition.
Teatro Albéniz, Calle de la Paz 11

San Isidro
May
Commemoration of Madrid's patron saint with procession to the church of San Isidoro, open-air dance performances, theatre productions, zarzuela, pop and rock concerts and sports competitions.
Pradera de San Isidoro and various other venues

Gay Pride
Last week in June
Festival culminates in a parade through the Retiro, Sol and Casa de Campo districts, other events in Chueca district.
Website: www.gaypridemadrid.com

Veranos de la Villa (Summer in the City)
July-August
Seasonal cultural events.
Various venues

Festival de Otoño (Autumn Festival)
October-November
Madrid's most important annual arts festival.
Various venues

Feria de Artesania
December
Festive craft fair.
Paseo de Recoletos

Natividad (Christmas)
December
Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Plaza Mayor

Nochevieja (New Year's Eve)
December
Crowds gather to eat grapes and drink champagne.
Puerta del Sol