January in Madrid shows no signs of giving in to winter boredom. The city is once again coming alive, with its streets and cultural venues inviting locals and visitors alike to a range of free events. This year, organizers have put together a packed program: from film screenings and exhibitions to musical evenings and traditional celebrations. There’s something for everyone, and the capital’s energetic atmosphere promises a boost that will last all week.
The spotlight is on the 44th Spanish Film Week in the Carabanchel district. Here, fans of national cinema come together to enjoy the best films of the year and discover the work of up-and-coming directors. But cinema isn’t the only reason to step outside: exhibitions, interactive projects, family tours and concerts await anyone ready to embrace the winter chill.
Movies with no ticket needed
Carabanchel is once again a magnet for film enthusiasts. From January 15 to 25, two of the district’s cultural centers — Fernando Lázaro Carreter and San Francisco La Prensa — will be hosting feature and short film screenings. The program includes both morning and evening sessions, and there are special days for children on January 24 and 25. The festival finale will take place on January 25 at 18:00, when the last film of the event lights up the screen.
Before each feature film, viewers can enjoy short films by the competition finalists, adding a fresh and unexpected touch to the screenings. For many, this is a chance to discover new talents and see contemporary Spanish cinema from a different perspective. Venues are accessible by metro (Urgel station, line 5) or by bus (routes 34, 108, 118).
Art for Everyone
Those who prefer visual arts should visit the Matadero cultural center (Matadero). Until February 8, it’s hosting the unconventional exhibition ‘It Takes a Whole Community to Move a Desert’ (Se necesita un pueblo para mover un desierto) by artist María Jérez. The exhibition transforms the space into a kind of playground where every visitor becomes part of the creative process. Admission is free, but advance registration is required, and visits are limited to 80 minutes.
The exhibition is designed for visitors of all ages and invites you not just to observe, but to interact with the art. Here you can both watch and transform the space with your actions. Matadero is located on Plaza de Legazpi (plaza de Legazpi, 8), next to the metro station of the same name (lines 3 and 6).
Family Routes
For families with children, January 17 will be a special day. La Casa Encendida will host a guided tour of the exhibition ‘Gold Woven from Straw’ (Oro tejido con paja), where works by Elena Mendizabal and Joan Roam explore themes of craftsmanship and the connection between people and materials. The tour starts at noon and will be engaging for both adults and children.
The organizers promise an informal approach and an opportunity to see sculpture in a new light. La Casa Encendida is located at Ronda de Valencia, 2, and can be reached by metro (Acacias station, line 5, and Embajadores station, line 3).
Music and Traditions
Music lovers can look forward to meeting one of the brightest stars of contemporary flamenco. On January 17, flutist Juan Parrilla will perform at the Centro Sociocultural García Lorca. His style fuses classical training with the passion of Andalusian rhythms. The concert begins at 19:00, admission is free, but seating is limited.
Fans of tradition won’t be left out: from January 16 to 18, the city center will host celebrations in honor of San Antón, the patron saint of animals. The opening ceremony will take place on January 16 at 18:00, with a welcome speech by Luis Natalio Royo, a representative of ONCE, the National Organization of the Blind. The program includes concerts, workshops, and events dedicated to guide dogs. The main festivities will unfold at Palacio de Cibeles (Montalbán, 1) and other venues in the Centro district. The nearest metro station is Banco de España (line 2).
Cinema from Mexico
Curious moviegoers should stop by Fundación Casa de México, which is hosting the film series ‘Las últimas serán las primeras: segunda parte’ through the end of January. The lineup features debut films by young Mexican directors, including ‘Corina’, ‘El grosor del polvo’, and ‘Violentas mariposas’. Admission is free, but advance registration is required.
Screenings run until January 31 at Calle de Alberto Aguilera, 20, near San Bernardo metro station (lines 2 and 4) and bus routes 21, 147, and C03. This is a great opportunity to discover new trends in world cinema and explore fresh creative voices.
January in Madrid proves that even after the holidays, the city keeps its cultural momentum. Free events become more than just entertainment—they’re a gateway to the world of art, music, and tradition. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this kaleidoscope of events—the capital is waiting for its heroes.
