What is Festes de Gràcia? Every August, the Gràcia district of Barcelona bursts into color during one of the city’s most celebrated street festivals: the Festes de Gràcia, a vibrant expression of popular culture, particularly around the plaça de la virreina99. What began in the 19th century as a religious feast honoring the Assumption of…
The Festes de la Mare de Déu de Gràcia in Mahón, capital of Menorca, are the island’s most vibrant September celebrations. The Festes de Gràcia are celebrated annually and are one of the most anticipated summer events in Mahón. It is important to note that the Festes de Gràcia in Mahón are distinct from the…
Have you ever seen a scene straight out of a movie where people are locked in a massive tomato fight, tossing and dodging under a rain of red? It might resemble an Italian food festival gone wild, but it’s actually a snapshot of La Tomatina, Spain’s famous festival. In this article, we’re going to explore…
The first time you hear the ground tremble in March, you don’t understand what is happening, until suddenly, the sky explodes with firecrackers, and the entire city of Valencia comes alive. This is Las Fallas, a powerful festival of fire, art, and emotion that transforms the streets into a living celebration. I’m Pilar, a host…
Learning Spanish requires more than just classes and regular practice. In-depth knowledge about the key aspects of the Hispanic culture, including its declared Intangible Cultural Heritage and vibrant firework displays, is an important part of the learning process. At Spanish Express, we are committed to providing you with all the tools you need to improve…
Balearic Islands Day 2026 falls on Sunday 1 March, with Monday 2 March also observed as a holiday across much of the archipelago. This regional public holiday commemorates the signing of the Statute of Autonomy on 1 March 1983, the date that formally established the Balearic Islands as an autonomous community within Spain. Celebrations span…
Hi! I’m Pilar, your native Spanish host teacher in Valencia with Spanish Express and our Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP). One of my favorite parts of teaching is taking students beyond the classroom and into real culture, and that includes flamenco shows, along with many other historical and adventurous excursions. If you’ve never experienced flamenco…
Every year on the evening of January 5th, the historic streets of Ciutadella de Menorca fill with light, music, and excitement during the Three Kings Parade (La Cavalcada de Reis). In December, the festive atmosphere in Menorca begins to build, with holiday preparations, special events, and celebrations leading up to the parade. On the island…
Every Christmas season, Barcelona shines brighter than ever, and among the city’s most anticipated winter experiences is Els Llums de Sant Pau . As a highlight of the city’s festive identity, this year marks the fifth anniversary of Els Llums de Sant Pau, celebrating this milestone anniversary with new features and installations. Hosted at the…
New Year’s Eve in Spain is called Nochevieja, which means Old Night. It’s the goodbye to the old year and the welcome to the new year. It’s also one of the biggest year’s eve celebrations in the country. People don’t just “watch the countdown.” They live it. New Year’s Eve in Spain is recognized around…
