The city of Madrid is gearing up for the Fiestas de San Isidro 2025, a vibrant celebration that honors the patron saint of the city, San Isidro Labrador. From May 9 to May 15, the festivities will showcase a rich blend of traditional and modern activities designed to engage locals and visitors alike. The program was unveiled by Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida at the Museo de Artes y Tradiciones Populares, highlighting the importance of culture and community in the heart of Madrid.
With this year's celebrations marking the 400th anniversary of San Isidro being named the city's protector, the festivities promise to be particularly special. "Let’s celebrate San Isidro, let’s celebrate Madrid, let’s celebrate everything we are here, together, through our tradition and culture that makes us better every day," Almeida expressed during the presentation.
The opening ceremony, or pregón, will be delivered by Real Madrid footballer Dani Carvajal on May 8 at 20:00 in the Plaza de la Villa, officially kicking off a week filled with music, dance, and cultural activities.
As part of the celebrations, the 41st edition of the Festival de Danzas Madrileñas will take place, featuring the Grup de Danses Algadins from Algemesí, Valencia, as a guest performer. This festival will showcase traditional dance forms, including the Escuela Bolera and music and dances from Castilla, emphasizing the cultural heritage of Madrid.
In addition to the dance festival, the program includes a variety of concerts featuring popular artists. From May 6 to May 15, venues across the city will host performances from renowned musicians. On May 6, Rock Hilarios and Mama Chencha will perform at the Parque de San Isidro, followed by a lineup of artists such as Varonas and Toreros Muertos on May 7.
May 9 will see performances from Ángeles Toledano and Amistades Peligrosas in the Plaza Mayor, while the Jardines de las Vistillas will host Amor Líquido, Nusar3000, and Merca Bae DJ Set. The celebrations will continue with a variety of acts throughout the week, culminating in a spectacular finale on May 15.
The festivities will also include free chotis workshops at the Círculo de Bellas Artes from May 5 to May 7, allowing attendees to learn traditional dance steps before the main events. Furthermore, the 47th Feria del Libro Antiguo y de Ocasión will take place on the Paseo de Recoletos, celebrating literature and culture.
Food will play a significant role in the festivities, with local bakeries preparing traditional rosquillas and a new creation called the Garrote del Santo, a unique bread made with figs macerated in wine or anise. The Asociación de Cocineros y Reposteros de la Comunidad de Madrid (ACYRE) has also introduced a new dish named Fuera de carta, while the cocktail bar Salmon Guru will offer a special drink called Madrid 91.
On May 10, the Centro Cultural Daoiz y Velarde will screen the film La Revoltosa, accompanied by live music from the Orquesta de la Universidad Carlos III de Madrid. Additionally, the 26th Feria Internacional del Disco de Madrid will take place in the Pabellón de Convenciones at Casa de Campo, showcasing the vibrant music scene of the city.
The Plaza Mayor will transform into a hub of activity, with traditional music and dance performances, while the Pradera de San Isidro will host family-friendly events and entertainment. The nights of May 10 and 15 will feature dazzling pyrotechnic displays, lighting up the Madrid skyline.
In a commitment to accessibility, this year’s festivities will include sign language interpretation, subtitles for concerts, and vibrating backpacks for the hearing impaired. Safe points, known as puntos violeta, will also be established to promote awareness and prevention of sexual violence during the celebrations.
With over 200 events planned, Madrid's Fiestas de San Isidro 2025 promises to be a grand celebration of culture, tradition, and community spirit. The official program can be accessed online, providing details on all activities and performances.
As the city prepares to come alive with the sounds of music and the sights of traditional dance, residents and visitors alike are invited to join in the festivities, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry that defines Madrid.
