The neighbourhood of Lavapiés hosts the Fiesta de Los Mayos-La Maya (3 May in 2026), a traditional festival that has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC) in the category of Cultural Events by the Community of Madrid. This celebration is part of the San Isidro festivities, that honour the city’s patron saint.
Madrid welcomes the arrival of spring through the icon of the Maya, represented by a young girl who presides over the festivities from an altar constructed with ephemeral materials, primarily plants and decorative objects.
The young girl, dressed for the occasion in sumptuous attire, and adorned with embroidered Manila shawls, sits motionless, accompanied by a court of young girls. Locals attend dressed in traditional Castilian and Goyesque costumes from Madrid and join in traditional dances such as the jota. The Goyesque aesthetic is characteristic of the celebration in Lavapiés.
In 2026, the festival will take place on 3 May in and around Plaza de Lavapiés. There will be music and dancing and, in nearby streets, carnations and plants will be handed out. There will also be a party featuring rosquillas (traditional ring-shaped pastries) and regional wines. The day will wrap up with a floral offering at the Church of San Lorenzo.
