San Isidro 2025: Madrid’s Most Iconic Festival

Thinking of visiting Madrid in May? Or just curious about how locals celebrate this iconic event? Keep reading—we’ll tell you what to see, where to go, and how to make the most of San Isidro 2025.

Once again, Madrid dresses up in traditional attire—chulapos and chulapas—to celebrate its most deeply rooted festival: San Isidro Labrador, the city’s patron saint. In 2025, the San Isidro Festival returns stronger than ever, offering a unique blend of culture, gastronomy, music, and tradition that transforms the city into a vibrant celebration of its identity.

When is the San Isidro Festival in 2025?

While the main celebration takes place on May 15, the official calendar usually extends for over a week, from May 10 to May 19. During this time, Madrid turns into a city of open-air concerts, food fairs, street dances, and lively gatherings in every neighborhood.

Where is San Isidro Celebrated?

One of the festival’s charms is that it spreads across the entire city. Still, there are some must-visit locations:

• La Pradera de San Isidro: the heart of the festival, where families and friends gather for a festive picnic.
• Las Vistillas: known for its traditional music and unbeatable sunset views.
• Matadero Madrid & Plaza Mayor: cultural hotspots hosting concerts, workshops, and family-friendly activities.
• Debod Temple & Parque del Oeste: perfect for watching fireworks under the stars.

What to do during San Isidro 2025?

This year’s festival schedule is packed with events for all ages and tastes:

• Free concerts featuring local and national artists (pop, flamenco, folk, indie, electronic…).
• Traditional parades with giant puppets and “cabezudos”.
• Street performances and chotis dances.
• Gastronomic experiences, from classic rosquillas (sweet pastries) to modern Madrid-style tapas.
• Children’s workshops and games in parks like El Retiro and Madrid Río.

A new addition this year: a digital San Isidro fair, offering livestreams and interactive content for those who can’t be there in person.

Traditions you Can’t Miss

San Isidro wouldn’t be the same without a few key traditions:

• Dress like a local: wear the chulapo or chulapa outfit—many young people now proudly join in.
• Drink water from the saint’s spring: located at the San Isidro hermitage, this ritual dates back centuries.
• Dance a “chotis” in the street: whether you know the steps or not, you’ll feel the rhythm of Madrid.

How to Dress Like a Chulapo or Chulapa (and Blend In Like a Local)

One of the most charming and photogenic traditions of San Isidro is the typical chulapo and chulapa attire, worn by madrileños of all ages. Dressing up isn’t just for parades—it’s a way to join the celebration and feel the festive spirit in full.

For Men: the chulapo look

To dress like a true chulapo, here’s what you’ll need:

• A checked waistcoat (usually black or grey), often with a red carnation in the buttonhole.
• High-waisted black trousers, typically with a narrow cut.
• A white shirt underneath the vest.
• A “parpusa”: the classic flat cap, usually in grey.
• Optional: a red scarf tied around the neck.

For Women: the chulapa outfit

A proper chulapa outfit includes:

• A tight-fitting polka dot dress, with ruffles at the bottom and often in red, white, or green.
• A white shawl with fringes, draped over the shoulders.
• A lace headscarf or mantilla, often topped with a red carnation.
• Accessories: bold earrings and bright lipstick complete the look.

Where to find your outfit

• Local costume shops in Madrid, especially in neighborhoods like Lavapiés or Malasaña, offer both rental and purchase options.
• Online marketplaces (like Etsy or Spanish artisan sites) also sell handcrafted versions.
• Some community centers or associations even lend outfits for the festivities, especially for children and visitors.

Why San Isidro stands out in Europe

Unlike other well-known festivals in Spain—like Seville’s April Fair or Pamplona’s San Fermín—San Isidro is uniquely “madrileño.” It brings together tradition and modernity, locals and tourists, foodies and music lovers. Whether you’re from Madrid or just visiting, everyone is welcome.

Local tips to enjoy San Isidro like a Madrileño

• Avoid driving: public transport is efficient and highly recommended during these dates.
• Wear comfortable shoes: you’ll be walking—and probably dancing—a lot.
• Eat like a local: grab a calamari sandwich near Plaza Mayor or enjoy sweet rosquillas at the Pradera.
• Join the conversation: use hashtags like #SanIsidro2025 or #FiestasMadrid to stay connected and discover live events.