Córdoba comes alive throughout the year with vibrant fiestas that captivate the senses. Whether you’re drawn by music, flowers, horses, or religious tradition, there’s a celebration in Córdoba for you. Here are the fiestas you won’t want to miss:

1. Semana Santa (Holy Week)

When: March or April (dates vary with Easter)
What to Expect:
Córdoba’s Semana Santa is a deeply moving religious celebration marked by solemn processions through the city’s narrow medieval streets. Over 30 brotherhoods carry ornate floats (called pasos) depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ, accompanied by traditional music and penitents in robes. The atmosphere is spiritual and emotional—a unique window into Andalusian devotion and artistry.

2. Fiesta de los Patios de Córdoba (Festival of the Courtyards)

When: Early to mid-May
What to Expect:
Declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, this festival is a visual and aromatic delight. Locals open the doors to their beautifully decorated courtyards, which overflow with geraniums, jasmine, and bougainvillea. The scent of orange blossom lingers in the air as visitors meander from patio to patio, often serenaded by flamenco music. It’s one of the most enchanting times to visit Córdoba.

3. Feria de Córdoba (Córdoba Fair)

When: Late May
What to Expect:
A burst of color, music, and dance awaits at the Feria de Nuestra Señora de la Salud, Córdoba’s main fair. Set on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, the fairground becomes a lively village of casetas (marquees) where locals and tourists dance sevillanas, enjoy tapas, and sip rebujito (a mix of sherry and soda). Horses and carriages parade by day; at night, the fair glows with thousands of lights.

4. Cruces de Mayo (May Crosses Festival)

When: Early May
What to Expect:
Plazas across Córdoba transform with flower-covered crosses standing as the centerpiece of celebration. Each cross is surrounded by elaborately decorated displays, music, and food stalls. The atmosphere is festive but more relaxed than the Feria, making it perfect for families and photographers looking to capture Córdoba in full bloom.

5. Noche Blanca del Flamenco (White Night of Flamenco)

When: June
What to Expect:
For one magical night, Córdoba becomes a stage for flamenco. Performances by some of Spain’s top flamenco artists take place in public squares, courtyards, and monuments across the city—all for free and continuing until dawn. It’s a celebration of music, dance, and Andalusian soul under the stars.

6. Festival Internacional de la Guitarra (International Guitar Festival)

When: July
What to Expect:
Held every summer, this world-renowned festival brings together guitar virtuosos from across genres—flamenco, classical, jazz, and rock. Concerts take place in historic venues like the Gran Teatro and Medina Azahara, combining music with the magic of Córdoba’s cultural heritage.

7. Romería de Linares

When: First Sunday in May
What to Expect:
A traditional pilgrimage to the Santuario de Linares, just outside the city, this fiesta blends religious devotion with Andalusian festivity. Pilgrims dress in traditional costumes, ride horses or decorated carts, and enjoy food, music, and dancing in the countryside.

Tips for Travelers

• Book accommodation well in advance during May, as the city is at its busiest.

• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the old town and walking between events.

• If you’re visiting during a religious festival, remember to respect local customs and traditions.