Madrid's history and tradition cannot be understood without its famous "verbenas", or open-air festivities, three of which are held in neighbouring districts during the month of August. The festivities begin with San Cayetano, in the area of Rastro/Embajadores, continuing with San Lorenzo, in Lavapiés, and finishing with the biggest and most important celebration of all, La Paloma, in La Latina.
Chulapos (traditional Madrid dandies), chotis dancing, lemonade, streets decked with lanterns, locals dancing cheek to cheek... All this is part and parcel of Madrid's local festivals - especially in summer, when the days are longer and can be enjoyed to the full.
These celebrations have a strong community spirit and are an inseparable part of the true Madrid: a city that cherishes its traditional image as a party-loving, sociable community with only one mission - to have a good time. And of course, the city extends a very warm welcome to anyone that wants to join in. The programme of events typically includes children's games and competitions, card tournaments, performances by bands and pop groups, tapas routes and the procession honouring the saint or virgin in whose name the festival is being held.
Traditional neighbourhoods
The fiestas take place in three very traditional neighbouring districts, where 19th century buildings, some with courtyards, and chaotic yet charming streets are all the rage.
The festivities dedicated to San Cayetano, which take place on 7 August in the area around Rastro and Embajadores, mark the start of the city’s August celebrations. The streets and balconies are decorated with manila shawls, paper garlands and flowers in honour of the saint, with musical and cultural performances in Plaza de Cascorro, as well as religious events in the church of San Cayetano.
The celebrations continue in the neighbourhood of Lavapiés with the San Lorenzo festival, which takes place on 10 August. Music, culture, and delicious food all come together to pay tribute to the saint who is also remembered in religious acts held in the little 17th century church dedicated to him.
Bringing these August festivities to a close is Madrid’s biggest celebration, which honours the Virgen de la Paloma and takes place in one of the city's most traditional neighbourhoods, La Latina. This party is held on 15 August and is one of the most popular celebrations in the city. It includes numerous activities that occupy the area of Plaza de la Paja and its surroundings, the entire length of Calle de Toledo right down to Plaza de las Vistillas, as well as the roads around the parish church dedicated to La Virgen de la Paloma which can be found in the square of the same name. These activities include regional dances, zarzuela operetta, pasodoble competitions, chotis dancing with traditional manila shawls, live music, children's shows, and traditional Madrid cuisine tastings.
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