Spain’s Top 5 Music Festivals You Can’t Miss This Year

Spain is a land of music festivals, with the summer calendar packed with events across the country, from guitar-strumming in the Basque Country and rocking rhythms in Barcelona to dance floors in Madrid, and flamenco festivals in Andalusia. The most established events feature line-ups of international artists, while the smaller ones are more like parties that go on into the small hours. After all, the Spanish love a good fiesta. The Primavera Sound Festival in Barcelona, a major event on the European festival circuit, runs from late May to early June. Famous for its avant-garde music, the festival has been held since 2001 in the Parc del Fòrum, a modern space on the shores of the Mediterranean. With over 260 concerts spread over 20 venues, featuring a mix of established artists and emerging talents, it’s no wonder that this festival has become a global phenomenon. The focus is on independent artists, with a spotlight on female performers, and the festival is committed to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and encouraging public transport use. Bilbao’s BBK Music Legends Festival takes place in June and has been a major draw since 2016. It’s a chance to see legendary artists like Jethro Tull, The Beach Boys, and The Pretenders perform live. The festival is held at the Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC) in Barakaldo, a short distance from Bilbao, which is easily accessible by public transport. The venue is designed for comfort, with lots of shade, seating, and rest areas, as well as a wide variety of food and drink options. Beyond the music, Bilbao offers a vibrant cultural scene, with attractions like the Guggenheim Museum, the Fine Arts Museum, and the Maritime Museum. In July, Mad Cool Festival takes over Madrid, featuring a mix of rock, pop, and electronic music from international and Spanish artists. Held at the Espacio Mad Cool, the festival offers a range of experiences beyond just the music, with art installations and gourmet food options. Past performers have included The Who, Foo Fighters, and The Cure. For those looking to explore Madrid, there’s plenty to see, from the world-class art collections at the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza, and the Reina Sofía Museum to the lively neighborhoods of Malasaña and Chueca, where you’ll find the city’s best nightlife. The Starlite Festival in Marbella is a glamorous event held in July and August in the Nagüeles quarry, an open-air amphitheater surrounded by nature. This exclusive festival combines music, fashion, and gastronomy, with performances by artists like Elton John, Ricky Martin, and Lenny Kravitz. The festival also features pop-up shops, art installations, and gourmet food stalls. Marbella itself is a luxury destination on the Costa del Sol, with beautiful beaches, golf courses, and a lively nightlife scene. Visitors can also explore the charming old town, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and the beautiful Plaza de los Naranjos. Finally, the Santander Music Festival in Cantabria is held in August in the stunning setting of the Magdalena Peninsula, with views over the bay of Santander. This festival focuses on indie and alternative music, with past performers including Vetusta Morla, Crystal Fighters, and Love of Lesbian. The festival is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, making it a perfect place to enjoy great music while soaking up the sun. The city of Santander also offers plenty to explore, from the historic Palacio de la Magdalena to the beautiful beaches of El Sardinero and the Cabo Mayor lighthouse.