Madrid New Year's Eve (Nochevieja) 2024-2025

Madrid celebrates New Year's Eve, known as "Nochevieja" in Spain, with spectacular pyrotechnics, lights, and music. A key tradition is eating 12 grapes, one for each stroke of the clock as midnight approaches, with each grape symbolizing good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year. Many locals gather in Puerta del Sol, the city’s main square, to enjoy this custom while the clock at Real Casa de Correos strikes midnight.

Puerta del Sol Fireworks

On the evening of December 31st, Madrid's Puerta del Sol comes alive as thousands gather to ring in the New Year. The beautiful lighting of the Real Casa de Correos, combined with fireworks and a confetti show, makes the celebration truly magical. As midnight approaches, the famous ball atop the city hall tower is lowered, accompanied by carillon bells. After four warning tolls, the clock strikes 12 times, and everyone hurriedly eats 12 grapes—an age-old Spanish tradition said to bring good luck, which originated in 1909 when wine producers had a surplus of grapes.

As the clock strikes twelve, the festive atmosphere peaks with a champagne toast, hugs, and kisses. People then spill into the streets, heading to parties and clubs to dance until the early hours. The square is already packed by 11:30 p.m., so arriving early is essential to secure a good spot. Clubs in the area are also in high demand on New YYear'sEve, so reserving tickets in advance is recommended. For those who can't make it on December 31st or want to experience it twice, there's a rehearsal on the 30th, where the tradition plays out in the same place at the same time. Whether you're there on New Year'sEve or the night before, the Puerta del Sol offers a spectacular and lively way to usher in the New Year in Madrid.

San Silvestre Vallecana Race

On December 31st, Madrid hosts the popular 10 km San Silvestre Vallecana race, one of the city's biggest running events. It has two parts: the San Silvestre Popular, open to all runners over 16 with over 40,000 participants, where many run in disguise, and the San Silvestre Vallecana International, a more elite race with just 1,000 spots, reserved for runners who meet strict time qualifications. The course is known for being fast, with most of the route being slightly downhill, making it an exciting way to close out the year.

Flamenco Show

For an unforgettable New Year's Eve flamenco experience in Madrid, Torres Bermejas is the perfect spot. Originally opened as La Taberna Gitana in 1949, it became Torres Bermejas in 1960 after renovations and quickly turned into a flamenco hotspot. Legendary performers like El Güito, Manolo Caracol, and the iconic Camarón de la Isla—who even met Paco de Lucía there—have graced its stage. Located just off Gran Via, Torres Bermejas offers an incredible atmosphere with its Alhambra-inspired décor. You can enjoy drinks or a seasonal dinner while watching live performances by 20 top flamenco artists, creating an electrifying evening. It’s the ultimate flamenco experience, rich with history and passion.

NYE Food

A practical and delicious New Year’s tradition in Madrid is stopping for chocolate con churros on the way home. Churros, star-shaped deep-fried dough covered in sugar, is served hot with a side of rich melted chocolate for dipping—a perfect cure for a hangover. While churros are popular year-round, they are a must after the New Year’s Eve festivities. For the best chocolate con churros in Madrid, visit Chocolatería San Ginés (Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5), a famous spot often with long lines. Other great options include Chocolatería de la Puerta del Sol (Calle del Correo, 4) and Chocolatería 1902 (Calle de San Martín, 2).