MADRID CELEBRATES SAN ANTON FESTIVITIES WITH A TRIBUTE TO ANIMALS
2025/01/09
From January 16 to 19 , Madrid will be the scene of the traditional festivities in honor of San Antón , the patron saint of animals. The capital will offer a program full of activities dedicated to pets and those who work for their well-being.
The festivities will begin with a tribute to those affected by the DANA that affected the Spanish Levante last October. On this occasion, the opening speech will be given by volunteers from ERICAM (Emergency and Immediate Response of the Community of Madrid), a group made up of more than 200 professionals who, together with their canine search team, act in emergencies both in Spain and internationally.
The Crystal Gallery of the Cibeles Palace will be the epicentre of the scheduled activities. During the weekend, attendees will be able to enjoy exhibitions featuring the Canine Units of the National Police , the Municipal Police of Madrid and the Canine Service of the Civil Guard . These demonstrations will show the skills of animals in tasks such as search, rescue and security.
On January 17th , a solemn mass will be held at the Church of San Antón , located on Hortaleza Street. After the blessing of the animals, the “ Vueltas de San Antón ” will fill the streets of the Justicia neighborhood with a colorful animal parade.
In addition, you can buy traditional San Antón buns , considered a symbol of protection and blessing for animals and their caregivers. You can download the official program of activities here.