I’ve been living in Madrid for close to ten years, and am surprised by the Military planes flying over Madrid every year.
Every year, as part of the preparations for the Armed Forces Parade in Madrid, the skies over Madrid are filled with aircraft rehearsing for the parade.
They have been doing this for a few years, and every year without fail you will find a bunch of people worried online asking why there are military planes flying over Madrid, always expecting the worst, but it’s just part of the the cities festivities at this point.
The preparation is for “El Dia de la Hispanidad“, one of Spains bank holidays that takes place on the 12th of October to celebrate the armed forces.
El Día de la Hispanidad
“The 12th of October is celebrated as the day of the discovery of America, when the Spaniards arrived in America. It was a contribution of cultures, in addition to our own, it meant adding more knowledge and being able to mix, interculturally and become what we are today”
This year, like every year, Madrid celebrates Hispanidad 2023 from the 6th to the 15th October 2023. The program will take place in 50 different venues, with up to 165 activities, most of them free; 700 artists of 17 nationalities and 86 concerts.
One of the most popular will be the free concert by Grammy award winning artist Carlos Vives in Plaza de Independencia.
The official celebration takes place on 12 October, with a ceremony in the Plaza de Colón in Madrid, where homage is paid to the Flag and to those who gave their lives for Spain, followed by a military parade along the Paseo de la Castellana.
The ceremony is presided over by King and the Royal Family, representatives of the powers of the State and the presidents of the Spanish autonomous regions are invited
A Few Facts About El Día de la Hispanidad
El Día de la Hispanidad in Madrid, also referred as Columbus Day is a significant national holiday in Spain. It is celebrated on October 12th each year and has historical and cultural significance.
Here are a few facts about this holiday in Madrid:
Origin: El Día de la Hispanidad commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492, marking the beginning of Spain’s colonial expansion.
Military Parade: One of the most prominent events on this day is the military parade held in Madrid. It takes place along the famous Paseo de la Castellana and features impressive displays of Spanish military strength.
Over the years it has evolved to include free music concerts and other activities to be more interactive for families and attract more people.
Ceremonial Acts: The King of Spain, along with other members of the royal family and high-ranking government officials, participates in various ceremonial acts and events throughout the day.
Public Celebrations: In addition to the military parade, there are numerous cultural events, exhibitions, and public celebrations held across Madrid, showcasing Spanish heritage and traditions. A great time to visit the Naval Museum.
Spain’s National Day: El Día de la Hispanidad is also Spain’s National Day and is a public holiday throughout the country.
FAQ Section:
Is El Día de la Hispanidad celebrated only in Madrid?
No, El Día de la Hispanidad is celebrated throughout Spain. While Madrid hosts some of the most significant events and the grand military parade, other regions and cities in Spain also mark the day with various cultural and civic activities.
Are there any traditional foods associated with the holiday?
Yes, traditional Spanish foods are often enjoyed during the celebrations. These may include paella, tortilla española (Spanish omelette), and various tapas. Additionally, local dishes and specialties from different regions of Spain are showcased in Madrid’s celebrations.
Are there any religious aspects to the celebration?
While El Día de la Hispanidad has historical and cultural significance, it is not a religious holiday. Some religious ceremonies and events may be held on this day in various churches to honor the fallen, as Spain has a strong Catholic tradition.
What is the significance of the military parade?
The military parade is a show of Spain’s military strength and serves to honor the armed forces. It also pays tribute to the historical role of Spanish explorers like Christopher Columbus in expanding Spain’s influence and territories during the Age of Exploration. (bit tongue in cheek for me at times)
Are there any specific traditions or symbols associated with the holiday?
The Spanish flag, along with the national colors of red and yellow, is prominently displayed during El Día de la Hispanidad. The military units and participants in the parade often wear traditional uniforms, and various cultural and historical symbols may be incorporated into the celebrations.