The Almudena festivities are back in Madrid, the long-awaited time of the year when the Spanish capital celebrates its patron saint, Lady of the Almudena, with an extensive program of masses, concerts and flower offerings to the Virgin who gives name to this celebration.
Traditionally, Fiesta de la Almudena is celebrated around 9 November, one of the annual bank holidays for locals, who usually take to the streets to honour their patron saint and great protagonist of the day.
There are many activities to make the most of your stay in Madrid during Fiesta de la Almudena 2022. ¡We let you know the best ones!
El día de la Almudena en Madrid
As we explained, the Day of the Almudena is on 9 November, which will fall on a Wednesday in 2022, making this a fantastic opportunity for a 5-day break if you have a couple of extra days off.
On this day all kinds of events are held in homage to the Madrilenian Virgin, mainly of worship, as it is first and foremost a religious festival.
What to do on Almudena Day 2022
Attend the Procession of the Virgin Lady
The day of the Almudena begins with a mass in the square of the cathedral of Santa María la Real de la Almudena. This is followed by an impressive procession of the Virgin through the streets of Madrid, carried on the shoulders of a group of 80 anderos from the brotherhood of Jesús el Pobre. The route reaches Plaza Mayor and goes back to Plaza de la Almudena, so it is easy to find a spot to watch it.
Then begins the period of the traditional floral offering, which invites locals and foreigners to recognise their Virgin by bringing flowers to the square.
Attend the Almudena concerts
There are usually several free concerts around the Almudena. The Banda Sinfónica Municipal de Madrid and the Orfeón del Ayuntamiento are usually in charge of the music, which includes pieces by great composers.
Try the traditional dessert
There is no greater custom on Almudena Day than buying the Corona de la Almudena, the famous traditional dessert of this festivity. This local sweet is offered the days before and on the day of the Virgin and consists of a roscón (ring-shaped pastry) that can be filled with cream, custard, or truffle.
The Corona de la Almudena can be found in most bakeries in Madrid, each with its own recipe for the dessert, and some with a figurine included. You can find it in the emblematic La Mallorquina, the pastry shop El Riojano or the Horno de San Onofre.
Your hotel for the Almudena long weekend 2022
If you are thinking of visiting Madrid during the Almudena 2022, we invite you to stay at our 5-star hotel on Gran Vía. The Principal Madrid is one of the most luxurious hotels in the capital, with an elegant decoration and the most exclusive services at the service of our guests. We are in the heart of Madrid, you can walk 20 minutes to the Almudena Cathedral, or go in 15 minutes by metro or bus.
Discover our restaurant Ático, an ideal place for lunch or dinner on Almudena Day. Chef Ramón Freixa has designed an informal proposal with traditional Spanish cuisine without forgetting the creative touches. We also have a great place to relax in La Terraza, our rooftop in Madrid with an ambitious cocktail menu. At The Principal we also care about your wellbeing, and that's why we have an exclusive massage and treatment area, as well as a fitness corner to keep up your exercise routine during your trip.
Don't wait any longer, discover our elegant 5* hotel with all the comforts to enjoy the Almudena Bridge, book your stay on our official website!
