Long live Madrid Festivals! A journey through the traditions and joy of Madrid
If you've ever wondered what makes Madrid so special, the answer might lie in its Madrid verbenas (Madrid festivals ). These festivities, filled with music, dance, and tradition, are the lifeblood of the city during the summer months. But where do they come from and what makes them so unique?
Join me on this journey through its origins and essence!
The origin of Verbenas: from flower to festival
It all began with a humble plant: the verbena . In the Middle Ages, this flower was believed to have magical powers, especially during the night of San Juan . Young people would go out into the countryside to collect it, seeking to attract love and fertility. Over time, this tradition transformed into what we know today as the Madrid verbenas, where the flower harvest gave way to festivities filled with music and dancing.
The Verbenas of San Cayetano, San Lorenzo and La Paloma: The Heart of Madrid
During the first half of August, Madrid dresses up to celebrate the festivals of San Cayetano, San Lorenzo, and La Paloma. The streets are decorated with garlands and colorful lanterns, and balconies are adorned with Manila shawls.
These festivities are not only a display of religious devotion, but also an explosion of popular culture, where traditional music and dance come alive.
Between August 7 and 15, Madrid is filled with color, music, and tradition with the festivities of San Cayetano, San Lorenzo, and the Virgen de la Paloma.
These are days when the streets of iconic neighborhoods become the setting for unique celebrations, where traditional and contemporary cultures coexist harmoniously.
- San Cayetano (August 7) : The festivities kick off in the Rastro and Embajadores neighborhoods. The streets are decorated with Manila shawls, paper garlands, and flowers. Cascorro Square is filled with musical and cultural performances, while the San Cayetano Church, a jewel of Madrid's Baroque, hosts religious events in honor of the saint.
- San Lorenzo (August 10) : The Lavapiés neighborhood takes center stage with the festivities dedicated to San Lorenzo. Live music, local cuisine, and cultural activities take center stage, along with the 17th-century Church of San Lorenzo.
- The Virgin of the Dove (August 15) : The festivities culminate with the festival of the Virgin of the Dove in La Latina. This neighborhood transforms into a grand festive stage that stretches from Plaza de la Paja to Las Vistillas. Between zarzuela dances, chotis, pasodobles, and tastings of Madrid cuisine, attendees experience the most traditional essence of Madrid.
El Chotis: the dance that defines Madrid
If there's one dance that embodies the essence of Madrid's street parties, it's the chotis . Arriving from Scotland in the 19th century , the chotis became the lifeblood of the festivities. Danced to the rhythm of the barrel organ, this dance symbolizes Madrid's identity, reflecting the city's ability to adopt and adapt foreign influences, creating something unique and authentic. 
Associations that keep the tradition alive
Behind every festival is an army of volunteers and enthusiasts who work tirelessly to preserve these traditions. Associations such as " De Madriz al cielo " and Los chulapos del Puente de Vallecas are dedicated to researching, teaching, and disseminating the customs, music, and dances that make Madrid's festivals a unique experience. Their work ensures that future generations will learn about and participate in these festivities, which are the beating heart of Madrid.
Participate and experience the magic of the Madrid Festivals
Whether you join in one of the festivities or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere in the streets, Madrid's verbenas offer an unforgettable experience . They are a celebration of life, community, and Madrid's rich history. So, the next time you hear the sound of the barrel organ and see the illuminated streets, you'll know that the magic of the verbenas is in full swing, inviting you to be part of a tradition that has united generations and continues to be the soul of Madrid .
Verberidad: A journey to the essence of Madrid's verbenas
At The Madrileñer , we are proud to present Verberidad , a work by Daniel Montero Galán that captures the unique magic of Madrid's verbenas. This print takes us to the Pradera de San Isidro , a setting where tradition and modernity intertwine in surprising ways: a reggaeton singer dances a chotis with a chulapa, a chulapo dares to breakdance, and twerking merges with a Goya-esque dance, all to the rhythm of a jazzy chotis.
What makes you a Madrileñera
Madrid is a city you don't just experience, you feel. Its traditions, like the August festivals, are a reflection of its welcoming spirit, vibrant energy, and ability to unite everyone under a festive sky . With his work "Verberidad," Daniel Montero Galán invites us to look at these traditions with fresh eyes and bring a piece of them into our homes.
This print pays tribute to what it means to be, live, or simply want to be part of Madrid. Because being a Madrileñera means loving its streets , its history, and, above all, its festive spirit.
Are you ready to take a piece of Madrid home with you?
Discover Verberity and other works in our collection. Celebrate what makes this city unique and feel proud to be part of its history.
