In February 2026, residents and visitors of the Comunidad de Madrid will have a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of fantasy without leaving the region. While traditional festivities often follow the same patterns, the small municipality of Fresno de Torote has decided to radically rethink its approach to carnival celebrations. The local authorities are betting on originality to capture the interest not only of their neighbors, but also of Madrid residents and tourists in search of new experiences.
From February 13 to 18, the streets of Fresno de Torote will become the stage for themed battles, parades, and creative workshops inspired by the Star Wars universe. Organizers promise a packed program for all ages, giving everyone a chance to feel like a hero from a distant galaxy. This format not only enlivens the region’s cultural scene but also encourages domestic tourism—a particularly pressing issue for small communities.
Galactic Week
The festive week will kick off on Friday with interactive fairy tales and mask-making workshops designed for children aged three to sixteen. Participation requires prior registration, enabling organizers to tailor events for different age groups. On Saturday, the focus will shift to costume contests and spectacular lightsaber duels on the city’s main square.
On the same day, a parade featuring saga characters and locals in themed costumes will take place. The procession will start at the town hall and end at the local cultural center, where special surprises await children. The festive atmosphere will continue throughout the week, with new activities related to the world of fantasy every day.
Family traditions
A special highlight of the program is Spain’s traditional ‘Sardine Burial’ ceremony, which this year will focus on environmental awareness. On Tuesday, children can take part in a workshop to make symbolic sardines, and on Wednesday, the main event will take place, marking the end of the carnival festivities. This approach blends modern trends with respect for cultural heritage.
Organizers emphasize that all activities are designed for family participation. Parents and children can create costumes together, join contests and workshops, and watch spectacular lightsaber battles. It’s not only entertainment, but also a way to strengthen intergenerational bonds.
Accessibility and history
Fresno de Torote is located just 45-50 minutes from Madrid, making it easily accessible by car or public transport. Despite its small size, the town preserves historical landmarks such as the San Esteban church and old buildings in the center. Most residents live in the Serracines district, but it is the historic part that becomes the hub of activity during the holidays.
Hosting such an unusual carnival is not only a way to draw attention to the municipality but also an opportunity to highlight the region’s rich history. Local authorities hope that their original approach to organizing the festivities will inspire other towns and help maintain interest in traditional events through new formats.
In recent years, Spain has seen a rise in themed carnivals inspired by popular culture and film franchises. For example, in 2024 Valencia hosted a superhero festival, while Andalusia saw parades in the style of Harry Potter. These events not only attract young people but also boost domestic tourism, breathe life into small towns, and forge new traditions. Competing for public attention, municipalities are looking for innovative solutions to stand out from traditional festivities.
