Fiesta de San Antón
Every January 17th, thousands of Madrileños queue outside the Church of San Antón in Chueca to have their pets blessed by a priest. Dogs, cats, turtles, hamsters, and even horses line up for the benediction in one of Madrid's most charming and quirky winter traditions.
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June
Fiesta de San Antonio de la Florida
Every June 13th, young madrileñas visit the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida to place 13 pins in the baptismal font, hoping the saint will help them find a partner.
December
El Gordo — Spanish Christmas Lottery
Every December 22nd, Spain stops to watch 'El Gordo' — the world's biggest lottery draw, a 200+ year tradition where children sing out winning numbers in the Teatro Real.
December
Mercado de Navidad de Plaza Mayor
Madrid's iconic Plaza Mayor hosts Spain's most famous Christmas market since 1860, with over 100 stalls selling nativity figures, ornaments, costumes and traditional joke items.
December
Nochevieja en la Puerta del Sol
Every December 31st, tens of thousands gather at Madrid's Puerta del Sol to eat 12 grapes — one with each chime of the clock at midnight. This uniquely Spanish tradition, broadcast live to 12 million TV viewers, is the country's most iconic New Year's Eve celebration.