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La Almudena Festival in Madrid
09/30/2023
Every year, in early November, Madrid comes alive with colour and music to celebrate the feast day of its patron saint, La Almudena.
These are days when the city is filled with concerts, religious services, family gatherings and a host of other activities centred around the Virgin.
In this article, we’ll tell you about the best things to do during the upcoming Almudena Festival in Madrid. There are plenty of activities in store for you!
When is La Almudena Day in Madrid?
The Almudena Festival in Madrid is held every year on 9 November, which is the patron saint’s official feast day.
However, activities, concerts and religious services in honour of La Almudena are held both before and after the official day, so you have several days to enjoy it!
What to do during the La Almudena Festival in Madrid?
The activities on offer during the Fiesta de La Almudena cater to all tastes. From religious processions suitable for the whole family, to free concerts for adults and treats for those with a sweet tooth, there’s a wide range of entertainment available:
Attend the events held in honour of the Virgin Mary
One of the main events of Madrid’s Fiesta de la Almudena is the traditional floral offering in the Plaza de la Almudena, which takes place on the eve of the festival, 8 November. During this event, the people of Madrid bring flowers and non-perishable food items, which are subsequently donated.
On the 9th, the High Mass takes place at 11 am in the Plaza de la Almudena, between the Almudena Cathedral and the Royal Palace, presided over by the Archbishop of Madrid. Following the ceremony, the Procession of the Virgin sets off through the streets of Madrid, winding its way through the city centre before returning to the cathedral.
The La Almudena Festival is also a chance to attend the free concerts given each year by the Madrid Municipal Symphonic Band and the Orfeón. An ideal activity for classical music lovers!
Sample Madrid’s cuisine and sweets
After visiting the cathedral, another thing to do in Madrid’s La Almudena district is to try the Corona de la Almudena, a delicious cream-filled pastry that you’ll find in the windows of every bakery in Madrid.
As well as being the patron saint of Madrid, La Almudena is the patron saint of the bakers’ guild, so this is a sweet treat they make with particular care. You can find the traditional cream-filled version, but also some crowns filled with cream or truffle. Visit the traditional Pastelería La Mallorquina or the Pan.Delirio bakery and try the best handmade crowns.
As it will start to get cold in Madrid come November, you can also take the opportunity to try a traditional Madrid-style stew in one of the city’s historic taverns.
Cultural visits
The Almudena Festival is also a great opportunity to visit some of Madrid’s museums and exhibitions. Of course, you mustn’t miss the Almudena Cathedral Museum, which allows you to explore the cathedral’s various rooms, admire the religious artefacts dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and climb up to the dome for superb views of the city centre.
It’s also the perfect opportunity to visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, situated right opposite the cathedral, which takes you on a journey through Spanish history via its monarchs. With over 3,000 rooms, including the impressive Royal Armoury and a magnificent Picture Gallery, the Royal Palace is a must-see if you’re in Madrid during the Almudena Festival.
Celebrate the Festival of La Almudena in Madrid
After a day celebrating the Fiesta de La Almudena in Madrid, you’ll find a place to unwind at The Bar, a spot where you can enjoy a drink and listen to music in a relaxed atmosphere.
Located in the Hotel Único Madrid, here you can enjoy classic cocktails or those with a twist, crafted by our mixologist, as well as an extensive selection of Spanish wines and beers.
Our 5-star hotel in Madrid is a true oasis of peace in the Spanish capital. We invite you to stay at our hotel in the Salamanca district, one of the city’s most exclusive areas, from where you can easily reach La Almudena Cathedral and the rest of the tourist attractions in central Madrid.
Book your stay at Hotel Único!
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