On Saturday, October 12, the Día de la Hispanidad is celebrated in Madrid, also known as the National Day of Spain. It is a national holiday, hence in many cities events of all kinds are organized. In Madrid is where it acquires a greater prominence as the capital of the country.
At LOCK & enjoy! we invite you to come to Madrid to enjoy any of the activities that are organized throughout the week. The main event takes place in the street, as we explain in this
What is the origin of Columbus Day in Madrid?
Columbus Day in Madrid commemorates the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus in 1492. Most historical texts agree that this historical figure arrived in the Bahamas on October 12, hence this date is the one chosen for this national holiday.
Its importance for historical, cultural and social purposes is unquestionable. For this reason, the holiday is regulated by Law 18/1987, emphasizing that it is an irreplaceable holiday. However, it was in 1892 when the Government first established the Día de la Hispanidad, on the occasion of the celebration of the IV Centenary of the Discovery of America.
Events in Madrid
During the week of October 4 to 13 numerous events are held in the city of Madrid. The importance of this festival is undoubtedly due to the increase of tourists who come to the capital during those days to know one of the most important festivals in the country.
We would like to highlight that this year the guest country is Mexico, therefore, the vast majority of acts have features of this culture. This is a tribute to the cultural ties that Spain shares with this country and, in addition, for being one of the most important tourist markets of the capital, since almost 700,000 Mexicans visited it in 2023.
At LOCK & enjoy! we encourage you to choose any of the activities that are organized and that we explain in more detail.
Announcement
This year’s opening speech will be given by the conductor of the Orquesta y Coro de la Comunidad de Madrid (ORCAM), the Mexican Alondra de La Parra, one of the most prestigious international conductors.
The date of the proclamation is Friday 4 at the Real Casa de Postas at 19:00 hours. We advise you to come with enough time due to the crowds that congregate in the surroundings.
Concerts
The concerts will be very present throughout the week, characterized by different musical genres and the presence of both national and international artists:
- Los Sabandeños (Plaza Mayor: October 13, 1:00 p.m.).
- Manuel Turizo (Puerta de Alcalá: October 6, 1:00 p.m.).
- Javier Mena (Plaza Mayor: October 10, 7:00 p.m.).
- Israel B (Matadero: October 10, 9:30 p.m.).
- Ralphie Choo (Callao: October 12, 9:15 pm).
Choose one of the 98 concerts!
Horseback riding
On Saturday October 5 at 18:30 pm the Cavalcade of Hispanidad will be held along the Gran Vía. The slogan chosen for this year is “All accents fit in Madrid”.
This is a parade in which delegations from 22 American countries participate, celebrating the brotherhood between peoples through dance, music or theater. A total of 6 floats will be present in the most famous avenue of the capital. It will be headed by Mexico, followed by Colombia, Argentina, Paraguay, Chile, Equatorial Guinea, Uruguay, Cuba and Bolivia. In addition, there will also be a representation of Madrid through a tribute to zarzuela.
Parade
The Día de la Hispanidad military parade is the most important event of the week. It takes place on October 12 at 11:00 am. This year more than 100 vehicles, 35 motorcycles, 120 horses and almost 4500 military personnel participate.
It consists of a ceremony where military honors are performed, the solemn raising of the flag and the parachute jump; when the flag is raised, a small tribute is made in honor of those who have died in service. This is followed by the parade of the famous Eagle Patrol, an acrobatic flight group belonging to the Air and Space Army. And finally, the air and ground parade.
This activity brings together the most important political personalities in Spain, such as members of the Government, as well as monarchs and high State institutions.
The starting point is the Glorieta del emperador Calos V, very close to our Lockers in Atocha.. From this area to the end of the route, Plaza de Colón, thousands of people will enjoy this spectacle.
In the evening, at 9:30 p.m. there will be a pyromusical show in the Plaza de Cibeles.
Municipal markets
The municipal markets will also have a prominent role in the Día de la Hispanidad in Madrid. Most of them will become gastronomic scenarios where Latin American cuisine recipes will be prepared.
For example, the Ventas Municipal Market will be the protagonist of Peruvian and Ecuadorian cuisine. On the other hand, the Tirso de Molina Market will bet on Mexican cuisine, but with a vegan and vegetarian touch. On the other hand, Colombian dishes will be very present in the Mercado de las Maravillas.
Come and visit Madrid! Enjoy the Día de la Hispanidad and make the Luggage storage reservation you need. We have video surveillance and USB chargers.
