May is the month of Madrid, not only because the weather is perfect and the city seems more friendly, it is also when they celebrate their big festivals: May 2, Day of the Community, and San Isidro on the 15th.
The full schedule of the festivities of the patron saint of the capital have been published on May 6, although there was an advance that coincided with the bridge of May 2. Among the artists who will perform are the folkloric Solea Morente and La Húngara, or the very castiza Olga María Ramos.
But in addition to music, there will be chulapos contests, workshops, children’s activities and lots of folklore.
Outstanding concerts of the Fiestas de San Isidro 2025 in Madrid
The concert program of San Isidro 2025 in Madrid offers a wide variety of music in venues such as Parque de San Isidro, Plaza Mayor, Jardines de las Vistillas and Matadero Madrid. Performances by Ars Amandi, Ángeles Toledano, Amistades Peligrosas, Kokoshca, OBK, Guadalupe Plata, Muchachito Bombo Infierno, Soleá Morente, La Húngara, Modestia Aparte and Los Manolos, among others, will take place until May 15. These free concerts reflect the musical diversity and festive atmosphere that characterizes Madrid’s festivities. You can check the complete calendar of concerts and locations in this article.
The San Isidro 2025 poster
This year’s poster has been created by Madrid illustrator Javier Navarrete, known in networks as El Chico Llama. It is not a single illustration, but there are four versions of this poster, which make a tour of four key points of these festivities: the meadow of San Isidro, Matadero, Las Vistillas and Plaza Mayor. Iconic places where most of the San Isidro concerts and other key events take place during these dates.
Zarzuela Concert in Lavapiés for San Isidro
During the San Isidro celebrations, Lavapiés comes alive with traditional costumes, pilgrimages and street food stalls. On May 15, at 12:30 pm, the Plaza de la Corrala will host a free open-air concert that will rescue the género chico with popular songs beloved by the people of Madrid, performed by soprano Carmen Gavilán, tenor Andrés Lara and baritone Abelardo Cárdenas.
This event is a unique opportunity to enjoy Zarzuela in a festive and neighborhood atmosphere. Among the featured pieces are Dónde vas con mantón de manila and Caballero del alto plumero. The complete concert program includes works by Chueca, Barbieri, Sorozábal and other classic composers of the género chico.
Solemn Procession of San Isidro 2025 through downtown Madrid
On May 15, starting at 7:00 p.m., the traditional procession of San Isidro will go through the heart of Madrid, starting at the Real Colegiata de San Isidro and passing through emblematic streets such as Toledo, Plaza Mayor and the Almudena Cathedral, where the saint’s chest is kept. Organized by the Pontifical and Royal Sacramental Archconfraternity of San Pedro, San Andrés and San Isidro, this solemn procession also includes the image of Santa María de la Cabeza, wife of the patron saint of Madrid.
This religious act is one of the most significant moments of the festivities, which combines tradition, devotion and traditional culture. In addition, the festivity has an extensive cultural and musical program that enlivens the whole city during these dates. Check here the complete route and more details of the procession.
San Isidro with children
From May 9 to 15, the Pradera de San Isidro is transformed into a family space with a complete children’s program designed for the little ones to experience the festivities of the patron saint in a safe, free and participatory environment. Between 12:00 and 18:00, children will be able to enjoy storytelling, concerts, puppet shows, magic shows, dances and parades that combine culture, entertainment and local traditions.
The program includes highlights such as El hilo de las emociones ( May 9, 6:00 pm), En busca del león ( May 10, 12:00 pm), el Musical de San Isidro ( May 11, 5:00 pm), and the Yo Soy Ratón concert (May 12, 7:00 pm). There will also be magic, traditional games, and a special closing on May 15 with a verbena, storytelling and children’s music.
Check here for the complete program and schedules so you don’t miss any activity.
Fireworks
After an intense day of concerts, pilgrimages and outdoor activities, the night of Thursday, May 15 at 11:59 pm Madrid will light up with a spectacular fireworks show. The full-color fireworks display will be seen from two emblematic points: the Pradera de San Isidro, next to the Ermita del Santo, and the Puerta de Toledo. This traditional closing of the festivities is one of the most awaited moments by thousands of locals and visitors, who look for the best place to enjoy and photograph the show. It is recommended to arrive in advance to ensure a good place.