The Ascension Festivities in May are one of the most beloved celebrations in Santiago de Compostela and are considered the second most important in the city after the Apostle’s Festivities in July. This event takes place annually, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy Galician culture, gastronomy, and traditions. If you’re planning to do the Camino de Santiago or will be in Santiago de Compostela in May, the Ascension Festivities 2025 are a must-attend event: from religious celebrations to cultural events and traditional Galician food, this is a vibrant, energetic celebration deeply rooted in the city.
Poster for the 2025 Ascension Festival in Santiago de Compostela
When are the Ascension Festivities 2025 held?
The Ascension Festivities 2025 in Santiago de Compostela will be held from Wednesday, May 28 to Sunday, June 1. This event coincides with the local holiday on Thursday, May 29, which marks the peak of the festivities. The date of Ascension varies each year, as it is the 40th day after Easter, but it always falls on the sixth Thursday following Easter Sunday.
Program of the Ascension Festivities 2025
Check the official program of the Ascension Festivities 2025, there are events that never fail, which we present below.
Poster of the Ascension Festivities of Santiago de Compostela 2024
Cultural and Recreational Events during the Ascension Festival
Throughout the week of the Ascension, Santiago de Compostela becomes a hive of cultural and recreational activities for all audiences. The most notable events include:
- Live music and concerts: From traditional Galician music performances (“alboradas”, tavern singing in bars, etc.), shows by the Municipal Music Band of Santiago de Compostela or the Royal Philharmonic of Galicia, open-air dances, local bands, and national and international artists—there is something for all musical tastes. For example, Tanxugueiras are expected to headline on Thursday, May 29, with concerts by Queralt Lahoz on Saturday, May 31, and Guadi Galego on Sunday, June 1. Folk and modern music festivals will also be held.
- Theater, dance, and puppetry: Theatrical performances take place in various venues across the city, some linked to Galician traditions.
- Parades and street performances: The colorful parade of traditional “Big Heads” (giant papier-mâché figures) and street performances are a hallmark of the festival. Children especially enjoy these animations as they roam the old town streets.
- Competitions and fairs: Local sports competitions featuring traditional games like the “Llave” or the 24th Ascension Race, antique car exhibitions, craft fairs, and popular markets offer the perfect opportunity to discover regional products. The Ascension Horse Fair in Amio on Thursday, May 29, is a highlight.
The festival spreads throughout the city, turning squares and streets into gathering places where locals and visitors celebrate together. See the full program here.
Music fills the streets of Santiago de Compostela with melodies
Typical gastronomy in Santiago de Compostela
As is usual with Galician folk festivals, gastronomy is one of the major attractions of Ascension. During these days, Santiago is filled with food stalls, markets, and restaurants offering the best of Galician cuisine, the perfect time to enjoy a true culinary feast in a festive and relaxed atmosphere. Some dishes you can try include:
- Pulpo á feira: One of Galicia’s most iconic dishes, traditionally served at Santa Susana’s oak grove.
- Galician empanada: Stuffed with seafood, meat, or fish, these pies are a local delicacy.
- Seafood: Galicia’s coast is famous for its fresh seafood, including clams, mussels, and barnacles.
- Galician wines: The region is known for its wines, especially whites like Albariño, which perfectly complement the local dishes.
Typical hearty Galician octopus dish at a popular festival
See the Botafumeiro on the Ascension of the Lord
The Botafumeiro is one of the most iconic symbols of the Cathedral of Santiago. This giant censer is used during special liturgical celebrations like this one. As stated on the Cathedral of Santiago’s website: on Ascension Day 2025, the Botafumeiro will swing through the Cathedral. To witness it, make sure to attend the 12:00 pm mass at the Cathedral of Santiago: we recommend arriving early to get a good seat!
Botafumeiro in flight
Tips for enjoying the Ascension 2025 in Santiago de Compostela
To make the most of this uniquely Compostela celebration, we recommend considering a few things.
Guided tours and museums
If you’re looking for a quieter, cultural experience, guided tours and the museums of Santiago are a great option. You can explore the historic center with an expert guide who reveals the hidden secrets of Compostela, explore the Cathedral of Santiago, or discover the Pilgrimage Museum and the Museo do Pobo Galego. If you’re into contemporary art, the CGAC offers a rich cultural program.
Best times to enjoy the events
During the Ascension Festivities, the city is full of activities, concerts—and people! Just as we advised for the Botafumeiro, arrive early for the most popular events, as they tend to be crowded. If tickets or reservations are needed, plan ahead so you don’t miss out.
Open-air dances are a big draw during city festivities
Accommodation and transportation
It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance due to high demand during the festivities. Santiago offers options for all budgets, from luxury hotels to hostels. As for transportation, the city has a good network of buses and taxis, and it’s easy to get around on foot. If you arrive by car, keep in mind the parking areas, and if you prefer a more relaxed option, the tourist train is an excellent way to see the city’s main sights.
Do the Camino de Santiago and enjoy Ascension 2025
If you’re thinking of walking the Camino de Santiago in May, the Ascension Festivities 2025 are a fantastic opportunity to rest and enjoy one of the city’s most iconic celebrations. After walking the final stages of any Jacobean route, you’ll be able to dive into Santiago’s festive life and get to know the local traditions up close. What better reward, don’t you think? If you need help organizing your trip, booking accommodation, or any other aspect of your pilgrimage, don’t hesitate to contact us! At Viajes Camino de Santiago, we’re here to make your journey even more special.
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