What’s Happening in Spain in November 2025: Key Changes and Events

November 2025 is set to bring about a number of fascinating changes and events in Spain. From significant anniversaries to festive celebrations, there’s plenty to look forward to.

Commemorating Franco’s Death

One of the most significant events in November is the 50th anniversary of the death of Francisco Franco, the dictator who ruled Spain for almost four decades. On November 20, 2025, Spain will remember this important moment in its history. Throughout the year, the ruling Socialist Party has organized over 100 events under the theme “Spain in Freedom.” These include exhibitions, film screenings, and debates to foster understanding of this period. In November, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has also promised to release a list of symbols from Franco’s regime that will be removed from public view.

Celebrating All Saints’ Day

November 1st is traditionally a public holiday known as Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day). This year, it falls on a Saturday, so many people won’t get an extra day off on Monday. It’s a day when Spanish families come together to honor their loved ones by visiting cemeteries, cleaning graves, and leaving flowers. It’s a time for reflection and remembrance, and the atmosphere is filled with a sense of respect.

A Long Weekend in Madrid

For those in Madrid, there’s more good news. The city has declared a public holiday on November 10th to celebrate the Virgen de Almudena, Madrid’s patron saint. As it falls on a Sunday this year, the holiday will be observed on Monday instead. This creates a delightful long weekend from November 8th to 10th. If you take Friday, November 7th off, you can enjoy a full four-day getaway!

Entry/Exit System Implementation

In terms of travel, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will start operating at Mallorca’s Son Sant Joan Airport on November 19th. This new system means that tourists from outside the EU will need to provide fingerprints and photographs upon arriving in Mallorca. Fortunately, residents in Spain will not need to go through this process; just be sure to carry your TIE card and passport to prove your residency. Meanwhile, Málaga Airport has already begun implementing this system progressively since October 20th, with further developments through November.

Festivals Galore

November will be vibrant with festivals. One major celebration is La Castañada, taking place in Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, and Aragón. This festival celebrates roasted chestnuts and coincides with All Saints’ Day and Halloween, although it is distinct from the latter. You’ll find street vendors selling delicious roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes. The Basque Country has its own equivalent called Gaztañerre Eguna, celebrated on November 2nd.

Concerts Across the Country

Music enthusiasts will have much to look forward to. Several exciting concerts are scheduled in November, featuring artists such as:

• Amaral in Huelva on November 1st
• The Hives performing in Madrid on November 2nd
• Jamiroquai in Barcelona on November 6th
• Hauser in Bilbao on November 21st and Madrid on November 22nd
• Mumford & Sons will hit the stage in Barcelona on November 23rd
• Tom Odell will have a show in Barcelona on November 30th

New Flight Routes

Travelers can also rejoice as new flight routes are launching this November. EasyJet will begin flights from Málaga to Edinburgh and from Almería to Liverpool on October 28th. On the following days, new flights will also commence between Barcelona and Leeds as well as from Seville to Verona, and Valencia to Bordeaux.

Healthcare Strikes

In a more somber vein, healthcare professionals in Madrid and Málaga are planning strikes in November. On November 15th, medical unions will organize stoppages to protest reforms affecting healthcare staff conditions. In Málaga, a five-day strike is also set between November 3rd and 7th, calling attention to issues like staff shortages and resource scarcity.

Holiday Preparations: Christmas Lights

As November rolls in, the Christmas spirit begins to take shape with cities decorating for the festive season. In Madrid, Christmas lights will be turned on starting November 28th, illuminating more than 240 locations. Vigo is also set to glow with 12 million LED bulbs illuminating its streets, while Barcelona will light up on November 22nd with a budget of €3.8 million for decorations.

Affordable Cinema Tickets

Finally, cinephiles in Spain can take advantage of the Fiesta del Cine (Cinema Party) from November 3rd to 6th, offering movie tickets at just €3.50 in 337 cinemas across the country.

In summary, November 2025 is gearing up to be a month filled with remembrance, festivities, celebrations, and notable changes in Spain.

SpainInNovember #FrancoAnniversary #AllSaintsDay #CastañadaFestival #MadridConcerts #TravelSpain #SpanishCulture

Original Text – https://www.thelocal.es/20251022/explained-what-changes-in-spain-in-november-2025