AFTER months of rain and even the wettest year in a decade, Spain is more than ready to swap umbrellas for sunglasses and get the music going again.
The festival season is back, bringing long warm nights, cheeky pints and that familiar nod of the head at a concert while feeling the live music through your body.
Whether you fancy dancing or just sitting down with a drink and enjoying the atmosphere, the Olive Press is here to save you from that future FOMO feeling.
Warm Up Festival, Murcia (1–2 May) Is a great way to start the month with a mix of rock, pop and electronic music.
Known for its vibrant vibe, it kicks off the festival season with international acts like Fatboy Slim and The Kooks.
It’s a lively but easy-going event, where you can enjoy big names without feeling overwhelmed by huge crowds.
This is a solid choice if you want to ease into festival season at your own pace.
Degusta Fest Armilla, Granada (15–16 May) Offers something a bit different, mixing indie rock with high-quality food.
It brings together artists like Primal Scream and The Charlatans, both known for their strong UK following and classic hits.
What makes it stand out is the focus on food, with the “Gastro Cartel” led by Michelin-starred chef Pepe Solla.
Instead of standard festival food, you’ll find show-cooking and carefully prepared dishes from local chefs.
It’s a great option if you enjoy good music but also want a more comfortable and refined experience.
Sónar, Barcelona (18–20 June) Is a must for anyone into electronic music, now so-called ‘ravers’.
It brings together big DJ names, back-to-back sets and a crowd from all over the world.
There’s a strong focus on technology and visuals, which gives the setup a modern, almost futuristic feel.
For the experienced ravers among us, there is a long-awaited debut from the UK group The Prodigy.
Sónar is packed with big names on the line-up, so this is a great pick if you want energy, late nights and something that feels different from the usual festival scene.
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Icónica Santa Lucía Fest, Seville (June–July) Comes to life over two months with a unique live music series held in the capital of Andalucía at Plaza de España.
It combines big international names (like Robbie Williams on June 30, Maroon 5 on July 9, and Fatboy Slim on July 14), bringing plenty of star power to the line-up.
The combination of music, warm evenings and striking architecture makes it an easy place to spend a night.
Perfect if you prefer comfort while still seeing top artists.
Jazz Festival, San Javier (late June to mid-July) is a slower-paced option focused on jazz, funk and soul. The relaxed atmosphere is where the music takes centre stage.
Artists like The Brand New Heavies and Young Gun Silver Fox fit perfectly into the laid-back setting.
It attracts a crowd that’s there to enjoy the sound rather than the rush of a big festival. A good choice for a calm, easy evening of live music.
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Mad Cool Festival, Madrid (8–11 July) The tenth edition is set to be a big one this year.
With an exclusive performance from K-pop star Jennie (BLACKPINK), her only European show on July 9, the capital will host more than 70 international acts like Foo Fighters, Kings of Leon and Zara Larsson.
It can get quite crowded, but it’s well organised and easy enough to navigate.
Best for those who enjoy big-name acts and a full festival experience.
Bilbao BBK Live (9–11 July) takes place on top of the Kobetamendi hills above the city, giving it panoramic views over the whole area.
With another festival embarking on a jubilee year, the Spanish government has labelled it as an ‘event of exceptional public interest’.
You can expect special acts like a symphonic concert by the Bilbao Orchestra, as well as big names on the line-up like Calvin Harris, Lily Allen, Interpol and Charlotte de Witte.
A strong option if you want a big festival without extreme heat.
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FIB Benicàssim Festival (16–18 July) remains a favourite among British expats for its beachside setting.
It blends indie and rock acts like The Kooks and Franz Ferdinand with a strong summer atmosphere.
Many people spend the day on the beach before heading in for the evening music.
The festival runs late into the night, making it feel very social and lively. It’s a classic choice if you like sun, sea and live music together.
Dreambeach, Vélez-Málaga (31 July – 1 August) this event is known as ‘Beach by Day, Festival by Night’ and is all about electronic music and high energy.
It features massive stages, strong production and big-name DJs like David Guetta and Eric Prydz.
The night-time format means music starts around 6pm and goes until the early morning, around 8am.
This one is best suited for those looking for a big party, or a so-called three-day bender, rather than a relaxed weekend.
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Visor Fest, Valencia (25–26 September) closes the season with a more comfortable and easy-going feel.
What distinguishes it from other festivals is its “anti-stress” concept, focusing on quality live music in a spacious setting without heavy crowds.
Bands like Ocean Colour Scene and Ride bring a nostalgic, feel-good soundtrack. Food options and space to move around make it a relaxed experience overall.
A simple, enjoyable way to round off the festival season.
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