Magdalena Festival of Castellón: Activities, Traditions, and Reasons Not to Miss It

The Magdalena Festival in Castellón is a unique celebration, designated as an International Tourist Interest event, filling the city with tradition, lights, and colours over nine days. From 22 to 30 March 2025, Castellón comes alive with unmissable activities: from the Romería de les Canyes pilgrimage and the Gaiatas Parade to spectacular mascletàs and nightly concerts. The Bullfighting Fair in the Plaza de Toros, with an exciting programme of bullfights and festivities, is another major attraction. Enjoy the complete experience, and book your tickets in advance to make sure you don’t miss a moment of this vibrant festival.

The Magdalena Festival in Castellón is an exceptional event with a charm and history that set it apart from any other festivity. Declared an International Tourist Interest event, this celebration transforms the city for nine days with a vibrant blend of tradition, culture, and festivity. Here at Servitoro, we have prepared this guide to help you make the most of this unique experience and feel the magic of Castellón at its finest.

When is the 2025 Magdalena Festival?

In 2025, the Magdalena Festival will take place from 22 to 30 March. These nine days, beginning on the third Saturday of Lent and ending on the fourth Sunday, make Castellón a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy music, art, and festivity in the streets. The festivities kick off with an opening proclamation, and the city fills with activities and performances in its most iconic locations, transforming each corner into a stage.

What to do during the Magdalena Festivities in Castellón?

One of the most significant events is the Romería de les Canyes pilgrimage, a gathering of over 100,000 people on the festival’s first Sunday to walk together to the hill of La Magdalena. This tradition symbolises the founding of the city and represents a return to Castellón’s roots.

As in other Valencian Community festivals, fireworks, light, and music play a central role in the Magdalena Festival. The daily mascletàs punctuate each day with rhythm, while nights are illuminated by spectacular firework displays and the famous Nit Màgica, an event where attendees dance under thousands of sparking lights.

A distinctive symbol of this festival is the Gaiatas, large illuminated monuments created by each district with great care. These structures shine in the Gaiatas Parade, a colourful event winding through the city centre on Sunday evening, offering an unforgettable visual display.

The Magdalena Festival also boasts a wide range of activities for all ages: street circuses, the International Animation Parade, the International Music Festival, and daily concerts at the Fairgrounds from 11 p.m. The festivities culminate with an emotional offering to the Mare de Déu del Lledó and the Magdalena Vítol, marking the end of this lively celebration.

The Bullfighting Fair in Castellón

At the heart of the festival, the Bullfighting Fair holds a place of honour in Castellón’s Plaza de Toros, drawing thousands of fans each afternoon. With an exciting programme featuring five bullfights, a rejon (horseback) bullfight, two novilladas, and traditional popular events, the Bullfighting Fair provides an unforgettable experience for those wishing to immerse themselves in this tradition.

To secure your place at these events, we recommend booking your tickets in advance through Servitoro. Our team is here to help you choose the best seat and date so you can enjoy the bullfighting experience in Castellón to the fullest.