Fiestas del Apóstol Santiago 2025 in Santiago de Compostela is one of the most awaited celebrations in the city, Galicia, and Spain. Why? Well, none other than St. James is the Patron Saint of Spain and Galicia, and obviously, it is a very pilgrim-like celebration.
This celebration reaches its peak between the night of July 24, its eve, and July 25, the feast day of the Apostle. However, the festivities last for approximately 13 days, starting on July 18 and extending until the 31st of the same month.
Detail of the Poster for the Apostle’s Feast 2025 in Santiago de Compostela
It is, by far, the most important celebration in the entire Autonomous Community of Galicia, also known as Galicia Day. Discover here the details of the Fiestas del Apóstol Santiago 2025, with all the tradition and celebration of Spain’s Patron Saint.
History and Significance of the Feast of Santiago
The feast of Santiago does not celebrate the saint’s birth, but his martyrdom. This end, together with his proximity to Christ as a disciple and collaborator, grants him his status as an apostle and saint. However, the choice of July 25 is not based on specific historical data. It was likely chosen to coincide with the feast of St. Christopher, who was highly venerated in the Middle Ages, thus linking it with our Apostle.
Santiago Apostle Preaching, a scene from the Jacobean tradition
In any case, the celebration of St. James’ Day is a very ancient ritual, probably established in Rome around the 10th century. It is, finally, in the 11th century, when it is first recorded as being celebrated at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Program of Activities and Events during the Feast of Santiago 2025
A program filled with numerous liturgical acts and cultural events takes place during these festive days in the city of Santiago de Compostela. Like all major festivals, the Apostle’s feast starts with the traditional Pregón from the Pazo de Raxoi, the City Hall. It will be held on July 18 at 9:30 PM.
Next, let’s see what this celebration holds for us in the year 2025, you can check the program here. All activities are free and open to the public until full capacity is reached, unless otherwise stated.
Altar of the Santiago Cathedral
Religious Ceremonies
In the days leading up to the feast, vespers, novenas, and special masses are held in the Cathedral, usually daily at 7:30 PM. However, it is on July 25 when the solemn mass is held at Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, with Botafumeiro included. In this mass, the King of Spain, or a delegate from the Royal House, performs a National Offering to Apostle Santiago.
Concerts and Cultural Events
During the festivities, Santiago de Compostela is filled with music, with concerts and dances being the highlight of the festivities. In 2025, local, national, and international artists, some of them very famous, are expected. The Alameda park, the A Quintana square, the Galeras park, or the Obradoiro square are common venues for these shows.
Plaza de la Quintana is often the stage for concerts and events during the Fiestas del Apóstol
Among the most notable musical performances of the Fiestas del Apóstol Santiago 2025, is the famous Senegalese artist Youssou N’Dour, who will perform on Tuesday, July 22, in the Praza da Quintana. Additionally, the venue will host a series of free concerts such as Biznaga on Friday, July 18, Sés on Monday, July 21, Baiuca on Sunday, July 27, Adrián Costa with the Saxos del Averno on Thursday, July 24, Samesugas on Monday, July 28, Maika Makovski on Friday, July 25, Lura on Saturday, July 26, and a tribute to Nino Bravo’s hits with Serafín Zubiri on Wednesday, July 30. The tribute to the bravú rock of the Banda Bravú Xangai, led by Xurxo Souto, will be on Thursday, July 31.
In addition to these concerts, events such as the Day of the Costume on Sunday, July 20, and the Traditional Galician Folklore Days on Saturday, July 19, will be held. Every day, there will be dawns, dance performances, workshops, circus shows, storytelling, sports tournaments, etc. Also, the Cinema Compostela event will feature outdoor movie screenings in various parts of the city. The range of activities caters to everyone, from children to adults.
Giants and Big-heads Gathering
A very traditional event is the Giants and Big-heads Gathering through the historic center of Santiago de Compostela. Accompanied by music bands, these amusing characters liven up and color the city on the main day of the festivity, July 25.
The Apostle Fireworks are the highlight of these festivities
Apostle Fireworks
The impressive fireworks in the Obradoiro square on the night of July 24 are one of the main attractions. This show includes projections and audiovisual spectacles on the facades of the Cathedral and other buildings in the square, offering a magical experience for attendees. This will also be repeated on July 31, the grand finale of the festival, both starting at 11:30 PM.
History tells us that this spectacle has been celebrated, albeit not in the same form, since the 16th century. Back then, without fireworks, the square was simply illuminated with candles. The Alameda park, the City of Culture, or the historic center are special places to watch them.
Typical Gastronomy of the Feast of Santiago
Gastronomy, as always in Galicia, is one of the most notable aspects of the celebrations. You cannot miss the octopus a la gallega, the bonito fish empanada, and the Padrón peppers, Galician culinary delights. There are also traditional sweets like the Tarta de Santiago, made with almonds. In Santiago de Compostela, you will find bars and restaurants to celebrate the city’s great festival gastronomically.
Sweeten the Apostle feast with a delicious Santiago’s cake
Tips for Enjoying the Feast of Santiago
If you want to enjoy these festivities, or maybe they coincide with your arrival after doing the Camino de Santiago, take note of these tips.
Accommodation and Transportation during the Festivities
It is important to book your accommodation in advance as Santiago de Compostela fills up with visitors during the celebrations. There are options for all budgets, from luxury hotels to hostels.
As for transportation, the city has a good bus and taxi service. If you arrive by car, make sure to know the parking areas. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a very large city, and it can be easily walked. Additionally, there is also a tourist train that departs from the Obradoiro square and takes you around the city.
Detail of the Poster for the Apostle’s Feast 2025 in Santiago de Compostela, inspired by an old Castelao poster
Best Times to Witness the Highlight Events
To not miss the best events, arrive early to the different activities and concerts. The most popular ones tend to be crowded, so it is recommended to get there in advance to secure a good spot. If reservations or tickets are required, be sure to keep an eye out so you don’t miss your chance to attend the events you’re interested in.
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
Cultural and Tourist Impact of the Feast of Santiago
The Feast of Santiago not only have a deep religious meaning, but are also a cultural and tourist engine for the city. The celebration of Spain’s Patron Saint is an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Santiago’s culture. From religious celebrations to cultural events and gastronomy, every aspect of the festivities offers a unique experience in the city.
In summary, the Feast of Santiago in Santiago de Compostela is a unique experience that combines tradition, culture, and fun. If you’re thinking of visiting Santiago or will be arriving after completing a Jacobean route, these festivities are a great opportunity to enjoy the city. Don’t miss it and start planning your trip now!
