Saturday, 12th October marks Hispanic Day in Madrid, also known as the National Day of Spain. This national holiday is celebrated with various events across many cities, but it is especially prominent in Madrid, the country’s capital.
At LOCK & enjoy! we invite you to come to Madrid and enjoy any of the activities organised throughout the week. The main event takes place on the streets, as we explain in this post. Therefore, we recommend leaving your belongings in one of our lockers in Madrid for total comfort and ease.
What is the origin of Hispanic Day in Madrid?
Hispanic Day in Madrid commemorates Christopher Columbus’s discovery of America in 1492. Most historical texts agree that this historic figure arrived in the Bahamas on October 12th, which is why this date has been chosen for the national holiday.
The day holds undeniable historical, cultural, and social significance. For this reason, the holiday is regulated by Law 18/1987, highlighting that it is a non-substitutable holiday. However, it was in 1892 when the Government first established Hispanic Day, marking the IV Centenary of the Discovery of America.
Events in Madrid
From 4th to 13th October, numerous events are celebrated in the city of Madrid. The importance of this festival is undeniable due to the increase in tourists who come to the capital during these days to experience one of the country’s most important celebrations.
This year’s guest country is Mexico, hence most events will feature aspects of this culture. It is a tribute to the cultural ties Spain shares with Mexico and recognises it as one of the capital’s most important tourism markets, with almost 700,000 Mexicans visiting in 2023.
At LOCK & enjoy! we encourage you to choose any of the activities organised, which we explain in more detail.
Proclamation
This year’s proclamation will be officiated by the director of the Orchestra and Choir of the Community of Madrid (ORCAM), the Mexican Alondra de La Parra, one of the most prestigious conductors internationally.
The proclamation takes place on Friday, 4th at the Real Casa de Postas at 19:00 hours. We advise arriving early due to the large crowd that gathers in the vicinity.
Concerts
Concerts will be a major feature throughout the week, characterised by various musical genres and the presence of both national and international artists:
- Los Sabandeños (Plaza Mayor: October 13th, 13:00 hours).
- Manuel Turizo (Puerta de Alcalá: October 6th, 13:00 hours).
- Javier Mena (Plaza Mayor: October 10th, 19:00 hours).
- Israel B (Matadero: October 10th, 21:30 hours).
- Ralphie Choo (Callao: October 12th, 21:15 hours).
Choose from one of the 98 concerts!
Parade
The Hispanic Day Parade takes place on Saturday, 5th October at 18:30 hours along Gran Vía. This year’s theme is “All accents fit in Madrid”.
It’s a parade featuring delegations from 22 American countries, celebrating the brotherhood among peoples through dance, music, or theatre. A total of 6 floats will be present on the capital’s most famous avenue, headed by Mexico, followed by Colombia, Argentina, Paraguay, Chile, Equatorial Guinea, Uruguay, Cuba, and Bolivia. Additionally, there will also be a representation of Madrid with a tribute to zarzuela.
Military Parade
The Hispanic Day military parade is the most important event of the week, taking place on 12th October at 11:00 hours. This year, more than 100 vehicles, 35 motorcycles, 120 horses, and nearly 4500 military personnel will participate.
The ceremony includes military honours, the solemn raising of the flag, and a parachute jump; a brief homage is paid to those who have died in service when the flag is raised. Following this, the famous Patrulla Águila, an acrobatic flight group from the Air and Space Army, will perform, concluding with the aerial and ground parade.
This activity attracts Spain’s most important political personalities, such as government members, monarchs, and high state institutions.
The parade starts at the Glorieta del emperador Carlos V, very close to our locker in Atocha, and ends at Plaza de Colón, with thousands of spectators enjoying the spectacle.
At night, at 21:30 hours, there will be a pyromusical show at Plaza de Cibeles.
Municipal Markets
Municipal markets will also play a prominent role on Hispanic Day in Madrid. Most will transform into gastronomic stages where Latin American recipes are prepared.
For instance, the Municipal Market of Ventas will feature Peruvian and Ecuadorian cuisine. At the Market of Tirso de Molina, Mexican cuisine with a vegan and vegetarian twist will be highlighted, while Colombian dishes will be prevalent at the Market of Maravillas.
Come and discover Madrid! Enjoy Hispanic Day and book the locker you need. We offer video surveillance and USB chargers.
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