This November, Madrid residents will get a unique opportunity to extend their holiday: the city’s patron saint day is being moved to Monday. This decision means many local workers can enjoy a mini-vacation, with three days off in a row. This special treat won’t affect other regions of the country, where Monday will remain a regular working day.
This year, the Day of Almudena (Día de la Almudena), which is traditionally celebrated on November 9, falls on a Sunday. City authorities have decided to move the official public holiday to the following day—November 10. Thanks to this, Madrid residents can enjoy a long weekend, rounding off the autumn festivities before the December holidays. The change was approved at a municipal council meeting back in October 2024 and has already been included in the calendar for 2025.
Holiday traditions and cultural program
To honor Madrid’s patron saint, the city will host major celebrations. The main event is a solemn mass and procession starting at the Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena, ending at Plaza Mayor. Thousands of locals and visitors will gather to take part. The city authorities have prepared a packed cultural agenda: concerts, street performances, and a music series dedicated to women’s voices. A highlight will be the traditional treat—Corona de la Almudena—which can only be tasted at the city’s best pastry shops during these days.
While Monday will remain a regular workday across most regions of Spain, the streets of Madrid will be filled with a festive atmosphere. The city will come alive with music, street celebrations, and the unique spirit that only emerges on these special dates. For many residents, it’s a great chance to take a break from routine and enjoy autumn days with family and friends.
What lies ahead
Next year, the holiday will again fall on a Monday, so there will be no need to move the day off. After the November long weekend, Madrileños can look forward to several more important dates: Constitution Day (December 6), Immaculate Conception Day (December 8), and of course, Christmas (December 25). So the November holiday becomes the perfect reason for a short break before a series of winter celebrations. For the capital, it’s not just a religious event but also an opportunity to strengthen civic traditions, unite residents, and bring a touch of joy to the autumn days.
