Spain

Las Fallas – Valencia (March 15-19, 2025)

It is said that destruction breeds creation — well, the participants of the Las Fallas festival in Valencia take that sentiment quite literally. Every year, this UNESCO-listed practice invites artists to create close to 400 giant papier-mâché sculptures (ninots) to be admired by the public and eventually incinerated during Cremà on the final night — yes, you read that correctly. Accompanied by the cacophonous daily fireworks display of the Mascletà, marvel at the colorful figurines as you explore the city’s beautiful architecture and lively street markets, or visit local workshops to find out what it would take to make a ninot of your own.

Semana Santa – Seville (April 13-20, 2025)

Representing a significant piece of Spanish heritage, the Holy Week is a sacred observance throughout the nation. This sombre yet earnest event unites the people of Spain in a joint celebration of their faith, evoking a deep sense of Spanish tradition and religious solidarity. Renowned for its processions, Semana Santa sees centuries-old brotherhoods carry elaborate, artful floats (pasos) depicting scenes from the Passion of the Christ from their home churches to the Seville Cathedral and La Macarena Basilica. Take this opportunity soak in the historic ambiance of Andalusian culture and indulge in special Easter treats such as torrijas (Spanish-style French toast).

La Feria de Abril – Seville (May 05-11, 2025)

For those in search of the most atmospheric and effervescent festival experience in Spain, the La Feria de Abril is guaranteed to leave an impression on even the most monochromatic of personalities. A lively display of Andalusian aesthetics, the two-week fair has something for everyone. Bullfights, Flamenco performances, authentic culinary offerings, traditional costumes, and parades with horse-drawn carriages are just some of the things that await visitors around the casetas (tents) that fill the grounds of the fair. This extraordinary cultural demonstration offers travelers an unbound, tangible connection with Seville and is akin to stepping through a portal into another way of life.

Portugal

Carnaval (Portugal, February 25, 2025)

What would a ‘top festivals’ list be without a carnival? Witness Lisbon and Porto’s vibrancy reach new heights with with samba-inspired performances and traditional masked revelers. Or, visit Madeira and embrace the theatrical flair of its elaborate allegorical floats and dynamic street entertainment. Even if the urge to dance doesn’t strike you (which is doubtful), you can savor some malassadas (delightfully crispy fried dough pastries) or the fragrant, spiced folares, (Easter bread) as part of the celebration. Blending history, creativity, and culinary indulgence, a Carnival in Portugal is guaranteed to color your trip with some extra zeal!

Santo António Festival (Lisbon, June 12-13, 2025)

Finish that Pastel de Nata and watch Lisbon gather in the streets for a celebration honoring its patron saint. See Alfama and Bairro Alto come alive with lively street parties filled with music, dancing, and laughter. Breathe in the aroma of grilled sardines—a festival favorite— as it fills the air. Observe the spectacular Marchas Populares parade, where Lisbon’s neighborhoods engage in friendly competition with colorful floats and costumes. In the mood for more festivities? Then join a wedding party and witness as dozens of couples wed in a heartwarming mass ceremony of “Santo António weddings,” embodying the city’s spirit of unity and joy.

Festa de São João (Porto, June 23-24, 2025)

Take a break from your explorations of port cellars for a chance to bask in the luminescent celebration of Saint John’s Eve. Watch Porto’s streets come alive with tradition, music, and merriment; and don’t be surprised to see people tap each other on the head with plastic hammers or leeks, as this playful custom symbolizes good luck! Revel in a one of Europe’s most impressive fireworks shows over the Douro River or take a boat cruise to enjoy the stunning pyrotechnic display in truly unforgettable fashion. A quintessential part of Porto’s cultural identity, this event reveals a whole new side to this amazing city.

Let the Festivities Begin!

Ready to party? Every event on this list is great opportunity to become acquainted with Spain and Portugal on a more personal level — and have some fun while you’re at it! Adding a festival visit to one of Travelive’s exquisite Iberian itineraries is guaranteed to make your trip a truly unforgettable adventure. So, mark your calendar and we’ll make sure that you don’t miss any of them!

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