Madrid’s Hispanidad 2026 Draws Record Audience of More Than 1 Million
More than one million people attended Madrid’s Hispanidad 2026, the festival’s highest figure on record and an increase of over 10% from 2025, according to the regional government. The sixth edition ran from October 2 to 12, bringing more than 200 activities to parks, squares and cultural venues under the theme “All accents of Spanish have a place in Madrid.” Live music drew nearly 700,000 people. Sebastián Yatra, Marta Sánchez and Carlos Baute performed in Plaza de España; Plaza Mayor hosted Cuban trumpeter Arturo Sandoval, the Madrid regional orchestra and choir, and flamenco performances. Aymée Nuviola, Cimafunk and other acts played at Madrid Río. On October 4, the Gran Cabalgata returned to Gran Vía for a third consecutive year. Delegations from across the Spanish-speaking world joined its 15 floats and 4,500 participants, drawing more than 300,000 spectators. The United States was this year’s guest country, with music, film, exhibitions and talks exploring its Hispanic influence. The Mexican Agave y Maíz food festival at Puente del Rey attracted 50,000 people, and 5,000 runners took part in the Madrid corre en Español race. Family shows, theatre and dance were also on the programme, alongside a fireworks-and-music display in Plaza de Cibeles on October 12.
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