Whether or not you believe it, Spain has a lot more to offer than sand, sun and sea. We've rounded up some memorable festivals and traditions throughout the country, which happen to be a bit out of the ordinary.
The Tomatina Tomato Festival in Valencia isn't just the biggest food fight in the world, but one of the most renowned annual events throughout the whole of Spain. If you prefer a little more action, the Running of the Bulls festival is another occasion that is out of the ordinary. Held in Pamplona, the locals release several bulls into the streets and the key is to stay ahead of the angry animals. Participants must be at least 18, and although it sound dangerous, the tradition has been going on for years.
Alternatively, for a more wardrobe friendly festival, head to Lanjaron (near Granada) for June's giant water fight, or, if you're in the mood for a little more adult refreshment during your holidays, the wine fight in La Rioja (where else?!) is also pretty fun. Continuing the alcoholic theme, Cadiar or Toro in Castilla y Leon also fill their fountains with wine for celebrations held in February, October and August.
If you've spent your Christmas holidays cooped up with your family before, you'll know that the festive period brings out the best and worst in people. With this in mind you can find some of Spain's most unusual habits at this time - most notably in Catalonia. Here people conceal small gnome-like 'caganer' figurines of people (sometimes famous) defecating (yes, that's what we said!) in their nativity scenes for children and friends to find. Rather surprisingly, this has actually been a tradition since the 17th century.
New Year offers some equally strange surprises in Spain too - not least because it is celebrated on six occasions with the earliest being in August! Our favourite traditions include grape eating in Madrid. If you're dining out during this time don't forget to bring a bunch of grapes, as on the stroke of midnight you'll be expected to each one for every gong of the bells. As well as being rather amusing, it's supposed to bring you luck for every month of the next year.
The Tomatina Tomato Festival in Valencia isn't just the biggest food fight in the world, but one of the most renowned annual events throughout the whole of Spain. If you prefer a little more action, the Running of the Bulls festival is another occasion that is out of the ordinary. Held in Pamplona, the locals release several bulls into the streets and the key is to stay ahead of the angry animals. Participants must be at least 18, and although it sound dangerous, the tradition has been going on for years.
Alternatively, for a more wardrobe friendly festival, head to Lanjaron (near Granada) for June's giant water fight, or, if you're in the mood for a little more adult refreshment during your holidays, the wine fight in La Rioja (where else?!) is also pretty fun. Continuing the alcoholic theme, Cadiar or Toro in Castilla y Leon also fill their fountains with wine for celebrations held in February, October and August.
If you've spent your Christmas holidays cooped up with your family before, you'll know that the festive period brings out the best and worst in people. With this in mind you can find some of Spain's most unusual habits at this time - most notably in Catalonia. Here people conceal small gnome-like 'caganer' figurines of people (sometimes famous) defecating (yes, that's what we said!) in their nativity scenes for children and friends to find. Rather surprisingly, this has actually been a tradition since the 17th century.
New Year offers some equally strange surprises in Spain too - not least because it is celebrated on six occasions with the earliest being in August! Our favourite traditions include grape eating in Madrid. If you're dining out during this time don't forget to bring a bunch of grapes, as on the stroke of midnight you'll be expected to each one for every gong of the bells. As well as being rather amusing, it's supposed to bring you luck for every month of the next year.
About the Author:
Catherine McCulloch is a travel writer who often travels to Spain for holidays. Click here for fantastic offers on hotels and flights to Spain from from MyTravel.
