May 02

In 1808, residents of Madrid rose against the occupying French troops on May 2, sparking the Peninsular War and becoming a symbol of Spanish resistance. The Anniversary of the Dos de Mayo Uprising is a public holiday unique to the Community of Madrid, where government buildings, museums, and schools host commemorative events. Festivities include military parades, reenactments of the uprising, and cultural performances that honor local heroes and martyrs. Flags are flown at half-mast, and many citizens participate in civic ceremonies led by regional authorities. Art exhibitions and historical lectures often accompany the holiday, exploring the uprising's significance in European history. The celebration fosters a sense of community pride and pays tribute to the bravery of ordinary citizens who challenged Napoleon's rule. Across the region, residents mark the day as both a solemn remembrance and a lively cultural festival, blending tradition with contemporary Spanish identity.