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towns hold animal processions and fairs featuring livestock and pets. Photo credit: OSCAR GONZALEZ FUENTES/Shutterstock
Madrid is preparing for one of its most beloved winter traditions: the Festividad de San Antón, dedicated to San Antonio Abad, the patron saint of animals. This year the celebrations will take place from January 13-18, with the main events centred on the weekend of January 16- 18, bringing together religious rites, community gatherings and plenty of activities for animal lovers and families across the city.
San Antonio Abad (Saint Anthony the Abbot) was a Christian monk from Egypt, living during the 3rd and 4th centuries. He is regarded as the protector of animals and their caretakers, with devotion in Spain linked historically to rural communities. Over time, the blessing of animals expanded into urban areas such as Madrid, including domestic pets.
Across Spain, the feast of San Antón is celebrated with regional variations. In Cataluña and Mallorca, towns hold animal processions and fairs featuring livestock and pets. Andalucía hosts street processions accompanied by local music, while smaller villages often arrange blessings of farm animals and communal meals. Despite these differences, all celebrations focus on animal welfare and community gathering, reflecting the saint’s enduring significance nationwide.
Named after San Antonio Abad, San Antón’s festivities have deep roots in Madrid, particularly in Barrio de Justicia and Chueca, where the Iglesia (Church) de San Antón, on Calle de Hortaleza 63, serves as the epicentre.
Programme and Main Locations
Events Across the City
Organised by the Junta Municipal del Distrito Centro, the festivities are centred on two main venues: the Iglesia de San Antón and the Palacio de Cibeles’ Galería de Cristal.
From Tuesday 13 to Sunday 18 January, the church hosts the sale of panecillos (small blessed bread rolls) daily from 10:00 to 20:00, traditionally associated with San Antón and taken home as a symbol of protection and good fortune.
The programme officially begins Friday January 16 at the Palacio de Cibeles, doors opening at 17:00, followed by a musical performance by Marilia and the pregón (opening address) by Luis Natalio Royo, director of Spain’s Blind organisationONCE (Organización Nacional de Ciegos Españoles) Workshops and games start afterwards, including adapted activities such as mobility circuits with guide dogs.
The Central Day: January 17
Blessing of Animals and Religious Events
The festival’s highlight is Saturday January 17, the saint’s feast day, when residents and their pets gather at the Iglesia de San Antón for the traditional Blessing of the Animals, from 10:00 to 20:00.
Religious services begin with a Misa Mayor (Mass) at 12:00, followed by afternoon and evening Masses, open to all and streamed online. Later, the Vueltas de San Antón procession winds through Travesía de San Mateo, San Mateo, Fuencarral and Hernán Cortés, celebrating the bond between humans and animals.
Activities for All Ages
Exhibitions, Workshops and Community Spirit
The Galería de Cristal del Palacio de Cibeles hosts exhibitions and demonstrations featuring municipal and national canine units, police and Civil Guard teams, and animal welfare organisations.
Children’s workshops, interactive displays and educational activities engage families, promoting responsible pet care. The festival’s inclusive approach reflects community values sustaining San Antón’s popularity.
Sunday and Community Events
Final Celebrations and Social Gatherings
On Sunday 18 January, markets, exhibitions and community activities continue. Plaza de Chueca hosts a pet parade and solidarity market benefiting animal protection organisations. The events combine entertainment with social purpose, turning a religious feast into a celebration of urban life and Madrid’s affection for animals.
What to Remember about San Antón 2026
- Celebrated in Madrid from January 13 -18 2026, centred on January 16-18.
- Honours San Antonio Abad, patron saint of animals.
- Main events at Iglesia de San Antón and Palacio de Cibeles.
- Blessing of the Animals and Vueltas de San Antón on 17 January.
- Activities include religious services, pet processions, exhibits, workshops and markets.
Final Reflections on San Antón 2026
Community, Tradition and Modern Relevance
San Antón blends religious observance with cultural heritage and community life, reflecting Madrid’s strong attachment to animals. The festival offers a rare combination of solemnity and celebration, where faith, civic participation and everyday life intersect in public spaces across the city.
Its enduring appeal lies in adapting to modern urban life while preserving centuries-old traditions. From rural beginnings to a city-wide urban celebration, San Antón underscores the importance of community participation and cultural continuity. By combining religious ceremonies with educational activities, workshops and solidarity initiatives, the festival maintains its relevance for new generations while remaining a cherished part of Madrid’s cultural calendar.
