July and August Summer Festival in Madrid (2023)
Experience the vibrant energy of Madrid during the July and August Festival in Madrid, where the city never sleeps and the Veranos de la Villa festival brings an explosion of creativity and diversity in the arts.
Discover the boundless energy of Madrid, as it comes alive with an exhilarating summer festival – the Veranos de la Villa festival. This extraordinary event rejoices in the tapestry of arts, weaving together music, dance, theater, circus performances, and captivating exhibitions. In this travel guide, I’ll share invaluable tips and recommendations to ensure your journey to Madrid is an unforgettable experience, immersed in the magic of Veranos de la Villa.
Mark your calendar for an extended celebration, spanning from July 5 to August 27, 2023. With an impressive lineup of 76 artistic performances spread across 29 vibrant venues throughout the city, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the spirit of Madrid’s iconic landmarks like the Plaza Mayor, the majestic Royal Palace, and the picturesque Retiro Park. But don’t be surprised to stumble upon unexpected stages atop charming rooftops, amidst blooming gardens, or even within the bustling streets. The festival’s mission is to embrace the essence of culture and showcase the richness of Madrid’s diverse neighborhoods, inviting everyone to revel in its splendor.
Fear not, for this festival caters to all tastes, ages, and budgets. Embracing inclusivity, many events are free or offered at affordable prices, ensuring that everyone can partake in the grand celebration. So, let your spirits soar and savor the essence of this enchanting summer fiesta, making memories to last a lifetime. ¡Viva la fiesta!
Join Veranos de la Villa Summer Festival in Madrid
Join the revelry at the July and August Festival in Madrid as it showcases a myriad of captivating performances, promising unforgettable highlights for all art enthusiasts:
- Aerial Strada: Witness the spectacle of aerial dance on July 5 at 10 pm in Plaza Mayor². Dancers will gracefully perform acrobatic feats on ropes and harnesses suspended from a crane, creating a mesmerizing display against the night sky². Inspired by the Italian term “strada,” meaning “street,” this show aims to bridge the gap between urban spaces and artistic expression³.
- Ute Lemper: On July 9 at 9 pm in Conde Duque², the renowned German singer and actress, Ute Lemper, will enchant the audience with her unique voice and style as she interprets melodies by Kurt Weill, Jacques Brel, Edith Piaf, Astor Piazzolla, and more². With numerous awards for her captivating performances, Lemper is celebrated as one of the finest interpreters of cabaret, chanson, and tango music⁴.
- Eliades Ochoa: Delight in the captivating sounds of Cuban son cubano music by the legendary guitarist and singer, Eliades Ochoa, on July 15 at 9 pm in Conde Duque². Accompanied by his band Cuarteto Patria and special guests, Ochoa’s music will transport you to the heart of Cuban tradition². Having collaborated with music luminaries like Ry Cooder, Compay Segundo, and Ibrahim Ferrer⁵, Ochoa’s performance promises to be an unforgettable experience.
- China: As the guest country of the festival, China graces several events with its cultural splendor. From July 6 to August 27, revel in the exhibition “China: A Journey Through Time” at CentroCentro², showcasing China’s artistic and cultural heritage spanning ancient to modern times. On July 22 at 9 pm in Conde Duque², experience “The Legend of Mulan” by China National Opera & Dance Drama Theater, a spellbinding musical drama recounting the tale of the legendary heroine, Mulan². The performance weaves opera, dance, martial arts, and acrobatics, adorned with breathtaking costumes and scenery⁶.
- Lee Fields: Concluding the festival on August 27 at 9 pm in Conde Duque², the American soul singer, Lee Fields, will mesmerize the crowd with his powerful voice and infectious groove, presenting his latest album “It Rains Love”². With a career spanning over five decades and influences from soul legends like James Brown, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke, Fields promises to deliver an electrifying finale to the festival.
Embrace the verve of Madrid and immerse yourself in the extraordinary performances of the July and August Festival – a true celebration of art and culture in the heart of this dynamic city.
Indulge in a diverse array of cultural delights at Veranos de la Villa, where an abundance of events awaits you. From the enchanting melodies of flamenco and the grandeur of zarzuela to the refined notes of classical music and the soul-stirring rhythms of jazz, rock, pop, indie, hip hop, and electronic music – the festival boasts a captivating soundtrack to suit every taste.
Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of theater and dance, where artistic expressions converge to tell compelling stories on stage. Prepare to be amazed by the spellbinding performances of circus artists, showcasing their awe-inspiring talents.
For poetry enthusiasts, words come alive in captivating verses, while cinephiles can revel in the art of storytelling through the lens of extraordinary filmmakers. And fear not, for even the youngest visitors will find their own wonderland with a plethora of engaging children’s activities designed to spark imagination and joy.
Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine arts or simply seeking a delightful summer escape, Veranos de la Villa promises an all-encompassing cultural celebration that embraces the heart and soul of Madrid. So, step into this vibrant tapestry of events and unlock the city’s artistic treasures, creating memories that will resonate long after the festival’s end.
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Flamenco
For fervent admirers of flamenco, a soul-stirring experience awaits at Veranos de la Villa’s captivating event – “Flamenco Madrid,” set to grace the stage of Teatro Español on July 11 at 9 pm². This mesmerizing show pays homage to the vibrant flamenco scene of Madrid, uniting a constellation of illustrious artists from the genre.
Prepare to be enraptured by the artistry of esteemed luminaries, including the enchanting José Mercé, the spellbinding Estrella Morente, the virtuoso Tomatito, the impassioned Diego el Cigala, and an array of other flamenco maestros². Together, they shall weave a tapestry of emotion, rhythm, and tradition, transporting you to the very essence of this evocative and expressive art form.
Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of flamenco’s beauty and depth, as “Flamenco Madrid” ignites the stage with an unforgettable display of fiery passion and profound artistry. Experience the heartbeat of Spain in the heart of Madrid and be enchanted by a night of transcendent music and dance.
Zarzuela
Discover the charm of Zarzuela, a traditional Spanish musical theater genre, seamlessly blending spoken dialogue, singing, and music. Experience the enchanting zarzuela performance of “La verbena de la Paloma” by Tomás Bretón on July 18 at 9 pm in Teatro de la Zarzuela².
This beloved zarzuela stands as one of the genre’s most popular and emblematic works, captivating audiences with its tale of a love triangle set amidst the lively backdrop of a Madrid street festival². Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Spanish culture as the stage comes alive with the captivating melodies and enthralling storytelling of this beloved theatrical tradition.
Classical Music
For enthusiasts of classical music, a delightful evening awaits with the Orquesta y Coro Nacionales de España on July 25 at 9 pm in Plaza Mayor².
Under the masterful direction of David Afkham, the orchestra and choir will take you on a captivating journey through the timeless compositions of Ludwig van Beethoven, Johannes Brahms, and Leonard Bernstein².
Prepare to be enchanted by the symphonic beauty and harmonious melodies as they fill the air of Plaza Mayor, offering a magical experience that celebrates the rich heritage of classical music. Immerse yourself in the majesty of these masterpieces brought to life by the talented musicians of the Orquesta y Coro Nacionales de España.
Jazz with a Flamenco Touch
For aficionados of jazz, an unforgettable night awaits with the Chano Domínguez Trio on August 1 at 9 pm in Conde Duque².
This mesmerizing trio, featuring the virtuosic talents of Chano Domínguez on piano, Horacio Fumero on bass, and David Xirgu on drums, will cast a spell on the audience with their unique blend of jazz standards and original compositions infused with a flamenco touch².
Get ready to be enthralled by the soulful improvisations, intricate rhythms, and vibrant harmonies, as the Chano Domínguez Trio takes you on a musical journey that transcends genres and evokes the essence of both jazz and flamenco. Surrender to the spellbinding melodies and experience the sheer magic of jazz in the heart of Madrid.
Rock
Calling all rock enthusiasts! Get ready to rock out with the legendary band “Los Planetas” on August 8 at 9 pm in Conde Duque².
With a career spanning over three decades and ten albums, Los Planetas stand as one of the most influential and successful rock bands in Spain. Their latest album, “Zona Temporalmente Autónoma,” showcases an eclectic fusion of rock, pop, indie, and electronic music².
Prepare to be swept away by the raw energy and passion that has defined Los Planetas’ enduring legacy. Embrace the pulsating rhythms and anthemic melodies as they ignite the stage, leaving you immersed in a whirlwind of rock euphoria. Don’t miss this momentous occasion to witness rock history in the making with the iconic Los Planetas.
Spanish Pop
Calling all pop enthusiasts! Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting melodies of the acclaimed singer “Rozalén” on August 15 at 9 pm in Conde Duque².
As one of the most popular and revered pop singers in Spain, Rozalén’s mesmerizing style is a harmonious blend of folk, pop, and social activism. Her songs are a reflection of her soul, brimming with emotion, humor, and poetry, and touching upon poignant themes such as love, feminism, diversity, and human rights².
Join in the celebration of her music as you sing along to the heartfelt lyrics and revel in the powerful messages she imparts. Experience the resonance of her voice and immerse yourself in a night of pop brilliance, where music and meaning intertwine in perfect harmony with the soul-stirring artistry of Rozalén.
Indie
Calling all indie music enthusiasts! Embark on a sonic journey of discovery with the avant-garde band “Triángulo de Amor Bizarro” on August 22 at 9 pm in Conde Duque².
As one of the most innovative and original indie bands in Spain, Triángulo de Amor Bizarro will unveil a mesmerizing sound that fuses noise rock, shoegaze, post-punk, and psychedelic pop. Their latest album, “oɹɹɐzıqɹoɯɐǝpolnƃuɐıɹʇ,” delves into captivating themes such as identity, politics, and spirituality².
Prepare to be immersed in a world of sonic experimentation and thought-provoking artistry as the band pushes the boundaries of indie music. Experience the evocative melodies, intricate harmonies, and thought-provoking lyrics that define the essence of Triángulo de Amor Bizarro. Unearth new sounds and redefine your indie music journey with this captivating performance.
Hip Hop
Hip hop aficionados, get ready to groove with the dynamic rapper duo “Natos y Waor” on August 29 at 9 pm in Conde Duque².
As one of the most successful and respected hip hop duos in Spain, Natos y Waor bring a unique style that seamlessly blends rap, trap, and reggaeton. Their lyrics are a tapestry of sharp, witty, and provocative verses, delving into themes such as social criticism, personal experiences, and street culture².
Prepare to be captivated by their electrifying performance, as they take you on a lyrical journey that transcends boundaries and defies conventions. Embrace the rhythm, feel the beat, and immerse yourself in the pulsating energy that defines the spirit of hip hop with Natos y Waor. This promises to be a night of unparalleled hip hop brilliance you won’t want to miss.
Electronic Muisic
Calling all electronic music aficionados! Prepare to dance the night away with the electrifying DJ “John Talabot” on August 31 at 11 pm in Matadero Madrid – Plaza Matadero².
Renowned as one of the most influential electronic music producers in Spain, John Talabot’s captivating style is an exhilarating fusion of house, techno, disco, and ambient.
Get ready for an eclectic and dynamic experience as he takes you on an immersive journey through pulsating beats and hypnotic melodies. Lose yourself in the infectious rhythm and let the music move your body as you embrace the magic of electronic music with the incomparable talent of John Talabot. This promises to be a night of electronic euphoria, leaving you with unforgettable memories of a musical adventure like no other.
Theatre
Calling all theater enthusiasts! Delight in the rich tapestry of classic Spanish theater brought to life by “La Joven Compañía Nacional de Teatro Clásico – LJCNTC” on various dates from July 6 to August 27, showcased in different venues across the city².
Dedicated to igniting a love for the classics among new audiences, especially young people, LJCNTC is a theater company with a mission to rejuvenate timeless works of theater. Experience their fresh and contemporary approach as they breathe new life into plays by revered authors such as Lope de Vega, Calderón de la Barca, and Tirso de Molina².
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Spanish theater as the skilled cast and crew of LJCNTC transport you to a bygone era, while infusing a modern twist to resonate with today’s audiences. Let the art of storytelling unfold before your eyes in the grand tradition of the stage. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the magic of theater, reimagined and reinvigorated by the boundless creativity of LJCNTC.
Artistic Dance
Calling all dance enthusiasts! Be mesmerized by the grace and artistry of the renowned “Compañía Nacional de Danza – CND” on July 12 at 9 pm in Teatros del Canal – Sala Roja².
As the national dance company of Spain, CND is a beacon of excellence in the world of dance, boasting a repertoire that traverses diverse styles and periods, from the timeless elegance of classical ballet to the cutting-edge innovation of contemporary dance.
Prepare to be enthralled by a captivating program featuring works by acclaimed choreographers such as William Forsythe, Nacho Duato, and Johan Inger². Experience the seamless fusion of movement and emotion, as the talented dancers of CND bring these choreographic masterpieces to life with unparalleled skill and artistry.
Get ready to be transported on a mesmerizing journey through the world of dance, where passion, beauty, and innovation intertwine to create an unforgettable performance by the illustrious Compañía Nacional de Danza. This promises to be a night of dance excellence that will leave you in awe of the boundless possibilities of the human body in motion.
Circus
Calling all circus enthusiasts! Prepare to be spellbound by the extraordinary show “Circo de los Horrores – Apocalipsis” on various dates from July 6 to August 27 at Escenario Puerta del Ángel².
The Circo de los Horrores is a trailblazing circus company that transcends traditional boundaries, fusing the captivating realms of circus arts, theater, music, and horror. Brace yourself for a post-apocalyptic extravaganza as they present their enthralling spectacle, “Apocalipsis,” featuring a mesmerizing array of zombies, mutants, madmen, and other creatures of the night².
Prepare to be transported to a dystopian world where the line between reality and fantasy blurs, as the Circo de los Horrores weaves a mesmerizing tale of survival, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit in the face of the unknown.
Be enthralled by their awe-inspiring acrobatics, daring feats, and mesmerizing performances that showcase the unbounded possibilities of the circus arts. Experience a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping excitement and spine-chilling thrills, as Circo de los Horrores unleashes their spellbinding and otherworldly creation upon the audience.
This promises to be an unforgettable circus experience that will leave you awestruck and thrilled by the wonders of the Circo de los Horrores.
Poetry
Calling all poetry lovers! Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of verse with the recital “Poesía o Barbarie” on July 19 at 9 pm in Matadero Madrid – Nave 16².
Poesía o Barbarie is a profound poetry project that strives to create a space for dialogue, reflection, and emotion through the power of poetry.
Prepare to be captivated by the lyrical prowess of esteemed poets such as Benjamín Prado, Elvira Sastre, Luis García Montero, and many more².
Be transported by the beauty of words and the rhythm of language, as these talented poets share their thoughts, dreams, and emotions, weaving a tapestry of emotions that resonate with the human experience.
Join in this celebration of poetic expression, where hearts and minds unite in the shared love for language and the beauty of verse. Experience the magic of poetry, as it moves and inspires, in the captivating recital of Poesía o Barbarie – a night of enchantment, passion, and the timeless power of words.
Cinema
Calling all cinema lovers! Experience the magic of movies under the stars at the “Cine de Verano Conde Duque” on various dates from July 6 to August 27 in Conde Duque – Patio Sur².
Step into the world of outdoor cinema, where the Cine de Verano Conde Duque offers a delightful selection of films from different genres and countries.
Relish the opportunity to watch classic masterpieces such as Casablanca, The Godfather, or The Wizard of Oz, transporting you to iconic moments in cinematic history.
Or immerse yourself in the world of contemporary cinema with recent hits like Parasite, Joker, or Jojo Rabbit², experiencing the power of storytelling in modern-day masterpieces.
Indulge in the unique ambiance of open-air cinema, where the stars above illuminate the silver screen, and the shared experience of film unites cinema enthusiasts from all walks of life. Be captivated by the magic of the big screen, as you lose yourself in the stories, emotions, and artistry that only cinema can provide at the enchanting Cine de Verano Conde Duque.
Photography
Calling all photography enthusiasts! Immerse yourself in the captivating world of visual storytelling at the exhibition “World Press Photo 2023” on various dates from July 6 to August 27 in LASEDE COAM².
The World Press Photo is an esteemed annual contest that celebrates the finest achievements in photojournalism.
Prepare to be moved and inspired by the powerful images that have won recognition for their ability to capture the most important and impactful events and stories of the year².
Experience the raw emotions, poignant moments, and extraordinary narratives that unfold through the lens of these exceptional photographers. From scenes of triumph to those of tragedy, these award-winning images bear witness to the resilience, compassion, and complexity of our world.
Indulge in the artistry and storytelling prowess of these photographers, as they present a visual mosaic of humanity, reflecting the triumphs and challenges that define our times.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to witness the world through the lens of the most accomplished photojournalists at the captivating World Press Photo 2023 exhibition.
Children Activities
Calling all parents and little adventurers! Veranos de la Villa offers a delightful array of children’s activities to ensure a summer of joy and laughter.
Watch as their faces light up with delight during the puppet show by “La Tartana Teatro – El sueño de una noche de verano” on various dates from July 6 to August 27 in different venues across the city².
This enchanting show is an adaptation of Shakespeare’s comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream, brought to life with puppets, music, and humor.
Let their imaginations soar as they embark on a magical journey through the whimsical world of fairy tales with the musical by “La Maquiné – El bosque de Grimm” on various dates from July 6 to August 27 in different venues across the city².
Witness the wonder in their eyes as they are transported through the realms of the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tales, enhanced by live music, puppets, and shadows.
These enchanting performances are crafted to captivate and inspire, creating cherished memories for the young ones and fostering a lifelong love for the arts. Don’t miss the chance to embark on these delightful adventures and make the most of Veranos de la Villa with your little ones!
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Experience the Vibrant Veranos de la Villa Festival in Madrid
Madrid comes alive in the summer with the Veranos de la Villa festival, celebrating the diversity and creativity of the arts. From July 5 to August 27, the city hosts 76 artistic performances in 29 venues, showcasing iconic landmarks like Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, and Retiro Park as well as unconventional spaces like rooftops and gardens. This cultural extravaganza has something for everyone, featuring a wide range of genres and disciplines, including music, dance, theater, circus, poetry, cinema, photography, and children’s activities.
For those seeking a musical journey, enjoy concerts by esteemed artists like Ute Lemper and the soulful Lee Fields. Dance enthusiasts can marvel at the talent of the Compañía Nacional de Danza or groove to the beats of the dynamic DJ John Talabot. Theater aficionados can witness classic Spanish works reimagined by the La Joven Compañía Nacional de Teatro Clásico. And for the little ones, magical puppet shows and captivating musicals await with La Tartana Teatro and La Maquiné.
Additionally, explore the World Press Photo exhibition to be moved by powerful images from around the world. Engage in thought-provoking poetry with Poesía o Barbarie, and witness a post-apocalyptic circus spectacle with Circo de los Horrores.
Whether you revel in classical, jazz, rock, indie, or electronic music, Madrid has it all. Indulge in flamenco passion, zarzuela charm, and the splendor of the classical repertoire. Veranos de la Villa is a festival that embraces the richness of Madrid’s cultural heritage and brings it closer to the people.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be part of a July and August Summer Festival in Madrid that celebrates the arts in all their splendor. Experience the heartbeat of Spain’s capital city in the heart of Madrid. Plan your visit to Veranos de la Villa and embrace the vibrancy, creativity, and spirit of this extraordinary festival!
