What Is San Isidro in Madrid?

By Alice Nichols

San Isidro is a popular festival celebrated in the Spanish capital city of Madrid every year on 15th May. This festival is considered to be one of the most important festive events of the year in Madrid and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.

The Patron Saint Of Madrid

The event is named after San Isidro, the patron saint of Madrid, who was a farmer and lived during the 12th century. He is known for his miraculous powers, which helped him to heal people and protect them from droughts and other natural disasters.

The Celebration

The San Isidro festival is celebrated with great pomp and show for several days leading up to 15th May. The city streets are decorated with colorful banners, flags, and lights, while people dress up in traditional outfits to participate in the festivities.

Bullfighting

One of the key highlights of this festival is bullfighting. The famous Las Ventas bullring hosts some of the most exciting bullfights during this festival. Thousands of people gather at the bullring to watch these spectacular events, which are considered a cultural heritage of Spain.

Music And Dance

Apart from bullfighting, music and dance performances are also an integral part of the festival. The traditional ‘chotis’ dance is performed by locals dressed in traditional outfits called ‘chulapos’ and ‘chulapas.’ These colorful dresses are inspired by traditional Madrid fashion from centuries ago.

Food And Drink

Foodies will love San Isidro as it’s a great opportunity to enjoy some delicious Spanish cuisine. Visitors can sample a wide range of local dishes such as paella, cocido madrileño (a hearty stew), churros con chocolate (fried dough pastries with hot chocolate), and tapas. Wash it down with a refreshing glass of sangria or a local beer.

Parades

The festival also features colorful parades, with floats and performers marching through the streets. The most famous of these is the ‘Romeria,’ which is a procession that starts from the city center and ends at San Isidro’s hermitage. People walk, ride horses, and even drive in decorated carts to pay homage to the patron saint.

Conclusion

In conclusion, San Isidro is an exciting festival that celebrates Madrid’s rich culture and history. It’s an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the city’s traditions, enjoy some delicious food and drink, watch bullfighting, dance to traditional music, and soak in the festive atmosphere. If you’re planning a trip to Madrid around mid-May, don’t miss out on this spectacular event!