Semana Santa (Holy Week): Usually March or April, the week before Easter. Seville's most important religious celebration features elaborate processions with massive pasos (floats) carrying religious statues through streets, accompanied by hooded penitents, brass bands, and saetas (flamenco-style laments). Over 60 brotherhoods participate, and the atmosphere is intensely emotional. Streets fill with spectators day and night. Book accommodation months in advance and expect higher prices.
Feria de Abril (April Fair): Two weeks after Easter, this week-long festival transforms the Los Remedios fairground into a temporary city of colorful casetas (decorated tents). Sevillians dress in traditional attire - women in vibrant flamenco dresses, men in short jackets. While many casetas are private, some are public, and the fairground's streets are open to all. Expect horse parades, sherry, dancing, and revelry until dawn. The fair represents Sevillian culture at its most joyful and exuberant.
Bienal de Flamenco: Every two years (even years) in September-October, the Flamenco Biennial attracts the world's top flamenco artists for concerts, workshops, and special performances across venues citywide. An unmissable event for flamenco enthusiasts.
Corpus Christi: June (60 days after Easter). Religious procession features the Seises (choristers) dancing in the Cathedral. Streets are decorated, and the cathedral displays its most valuable treasures.
Noche en Blanco: One night in October, museums, monuments, and cultural spaces open for free with special exhibitions, concerts, and performances until dawn. The city becomes an open-air cultural festival.
Major holidays when attractions may close or have reduced hours:
Note: Many shops and restaurants close on Sundays. Restaurants may close in August when locals take vacation. Always check specific attraction hours during holidays.