The fiestas of May 2nd are near, and Madrid is prepared to celebrate this festivity, declared an Asset of Cultural Interest. This celebration commemorates the uprising of 1808 when the people of Madrid rose up against the French occupation, marking the beginning of the War of Independence. Although the revolt was brutally suppressed, it is considered a symbol of resistance. From April 20 to May 4, 2025, the regional government has organized numerous cultural activities and concerts to honor this significant historical event.
The program for the fiestas del 2 de mayo in Madrid is described as "diverse, popular, and open," featuring a variety of activities and concerts suitable for all ages and tastes. Activities in the Explanada de Puente del Rey will take place on May 1 and May 2, 2025, with free admission until capacity is reached. The schedule includes:
- A zarzuela gala by the Orchestra and Choir of the Community of Madrid at 13:00 hours.
- A concert by Sanguijuelas del Guadiana at 19:30 hours.
- A concert by Carolina Durante at 21:30 hours.
- Performances by Lo Nuestro, Asociación de Coros y Danzas Francisco de Goya at 17:00 hours.
- A performance by Arrabel at 17:30 hours.
- A historical recreation of May 2nd at 17:30 hours.
- A concert by Maximiliano Calvo at 20:00 hours.
- A concert by Camela at 21:30 hours.
On May 2, 2025, additional activities will occur at the Parque de Santander, also with free admission until full capacity. This includes:
- Lo Nuestro, Asociación de Coros y Danzas Francisco de Goya performing at 12:00 hours.
- A performance by Arrabel at 13:00 hours.
Moreover, a program of concerts featuring music bands will be held in seven municipalities of the Community of Madrid, including Alcalá de Henares, Becerril de la Sierra, Casarrubuelos, Colmenar Viejo, Parla, Pozuelo de Alarcón, and Torrelodones, with free access until capacity is reached.
Adding to the festivities, the Fiesta de las Mayas y los Mayos will occur in El Molar on May 1, 2025, at 11:00 hours, also with free entry. Another highlight is the traditional Goyesca bullfight at the Plaza de Toros de La Ventas on May 2, 2025, starting at 18:30 hours.
In addition to the fiestas, the Gran Feria Medieval de El Álamo will take place from May 1 to May 4, 2025, marking its XXVIII edition. Located 37 kilometers from Madrid, El Álamo will transform into a medieval village, featuring over two kilometers filled with stalls, banners, and decorations that transport visitors back in time. This event, which started in 1996, is now recognized as a Feria de Interés Turístico de la Comunidad de Madrid, attracting over 300,000 visitors each year.
The Gran Feria Medieval will officially kick off on May 1, 2025, at 12:00 hours with a parade from the Plaza de la Constitución. The festival includes a variety of activities for all ages, making it an ideal destination for families and history enthusiasts alike. Highlights of the event include:
- The Gran Torneo de Justas, where six knights from regions like Castilla, Brittany, and Saxony will compete for glory in the arena.
- Equestrian challenges, such as javelin throwing and passing through a fire gate, culminating in hand-to-hand combat.
- A falconry exhibition showcasing the skills of birds of prey.
- Workshops, storytelling, and games for children.
The Celtival Music festival will provide a soundtrack to the event, featuring free concerts of Celtic and folk music from Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Visitors can also enjoy demonstrations of traditional crafts, from blacksmithing to stone carving, alongside a selection of traditional foods like cheeses, breads, sweets, and grilled meats.
As the celebrations unfold, Madrid will also observe the International Workers' Day on May 1, 2025, which is a public holiday across all autonomous communities in Spain. This year, Madrid will extend the holiday until May 2, 2025, in honor of the Fiesta de la Comunidad de Madrid. Various towns in Huesca, Zaragoza, and Teruel will also observe the holiday.
For those in Aragon, the opportunity to enjoy a four-day weekend is available for those who can take off on May 2, 2025. With the holiday falling on a Thursday, it offers a perfect chance for a short getaway or local tourism within the beautiful regions of Aragon.
In summary, Madrid is set to celebrate the fiestas del 2 de mayo with a rich array of cultural events, concerts, and historical reenactments, all while honoring the spirit of resistance that this date represents. From the lively festivities in the capital to the enchanting medieval fair in El Álamo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this festive period.
