This December, Madrid once again surprises locals and visitors: following major renovations, a series of free concerts will be held in the heart of the city at the Jardines de Sabatini. From December 20 to 22, the gardens will come alive with flamenco, jazz, gospel, and soul—all set against the backdrop of the Royal Palace in a truly festive atmosphere. Organizers promise that every evening will be special, and admission will remain free for all.
The Sabatini Gardens, which had been closed for a long time for restoration, are now once again open to the public. The space has been transformed into a true open-air amphitheater where visitors can not only enjoy the music, but also take in the architecture and winter lights of the city. The program is designed for a wide audience: there is something for fans of traditional Spanish rhythms as well as for lovers of contemporary music styles.
Musical Evenings
The first concert will take place on December 20 at 7:00 p.m. On stage will be Club del Río, known for their warm arrangements and festive spirit. Their performance promises to energize the audience and create the vibe of a true street celebration. The very next day, December 21 at noon, the baton will be passed to Creativa Junior Big Band led by Patxi Pascual. More than twenty young musicians will perform funk, bossa nova, and classic Christmas melodies, bringing a fresh and dynamic touch to the program.
Later that evening, at 7:00 PM, the Dany Noel Band will take the stage. Cuban bass guitarist Dany Noel and his team have prepared a special set inspired by the spirit of the winter holidays. Their music blends Latin American rhythms with modern arrangements, making each performance truly unique.
Flamenco and Traditions
The musical marathon will conclude on December 22 at 7:00 PM with a performance by Familia de Parrilla de Jerez. This will be a true flamenco zambomba—an authentic Andalusian Christmas concert featuring gypsy carols and folk songs. The group is led by Juan y Bernardo Parrilla, renowned for their respect for musical roots and passionate performances. For many guests, this will be a first opportunity to experience the authentic atmosphere of Andalusian celebrations without leaving Madrid.
Each performance takes place against a backdrop of historic scenery, adding special charm to the events. Organizers emphasize that the program is suitable for all ages and admission is free. The only requirement is to arrive early, as space is limited.
Access and Atmosphere
No registration or ticket purchase is required to attend the concerts. Just arrive when the event starts—entry is open until all seats are filled. It’s a great chance to spend an evening with friends or family, enjoy the music, and soak in the festive atmosphere in the very heart of the city.
This year, the Sabatini Gardens have become one of the main venues for Madrid’s Christmas festivities. Along with concerts, the location also hosts other seasonal events: light shows, workshops, and meetings with performers. All of this makes it especially appealing for those seeking new experiences without spending extra money on entertainment.
A celebration for everyone
December in Madrid is traditionally packed with ticketed events, but this concert series stands out from the rest. There are no long lines or high prices here—just music, a cozy atmosphere, and a chance to be part of a vibrant city celebration. For many locals and tourists, this is an opportunity to discover new artists and genres, or simply enjoy time outdoors.
Organizers recommend arriving early to get the best spots and dressing warmly—December evenings can be chilly. Still, nothing will stop you from enjoying live music and the festive spirit that fills the Sabatini Gardens in the run-up to Christmas.
