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 Intellectual Hub |
Calle Prado 21 Madrid 28014 Spain +34 914 296 251 http://www.ateneodemadrid.com/ |
Built in 1835 by liberal intellectuals, the Ateneo is one of Madrid's main centers for cultural activities. It was frequented by Pio Baroja and other famous writers. Containing one of the best periodical collections and libraries in Madrid, it also host exhibitions and other events throughout the year. See their website for a full calendar of events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Quality football on display |
Paseo de la Virgen del Puerto, 67 Madrid, Madrid 28005 Spain +34 91 366 4707 http://www.clubatleticodemadri... |
A group of Basque students living in Madrid formed this football club in 1903. By 1928, the team was playing in the Spanish First Division and have remained in the top league ever since, except for five seasons in the Second Division. The club has won nine Spanish League championships, nine King's Cups and one Spanish Champions League Cup. More recently, Atletico won the highly coveted "double," the League Championship and the King's Cup in 1996. Their home ground is Vicente Calderon Stadium, built in 1966 to hold a maximum of 56163 spectators. Events are conducted throughout the year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Montse & Ferran |
 Photo: Montse & Ferran |
 Photo: Daniel Campoy |
 Street parties on hot nights |
Recinto Ferial San Francisco de Sales-Pablo Iglesias Madrid 28003 Spain |
Chamberi and Vallecas neighbourhoods come to life around July 16 every year to celebrate their patron saint. Secluded Plaza Chamber costs the opening ceremony as well as an open-air party and children's shows. The main action takes place over at the fairground site on the junction of Calle San Francisco and Calle Pablo Iglesias. Along with all the rides and stalls, there are games for children in the mornings and live music in the evenings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dress up and have fun |
Plaza Mayor Madrid, Madrid 28014 Spain |
After 40 years of prohibition during the Franco era, this traditional medieval celebration sprang back to life in 1976. The festivities take place between the end of February and the beginning of March in various private institutions like the Ateneo, the Casino and the Círculo de Bellas Artes. Ash Wednesday is the finale, with the age-old ceremony of the Burial of the Sardine. A huge, good-humoured crowd gathers on Paseo de la Florida for the event. They are all dressed in mourning black as they carry the cardboard model of a sardine in its coffin to be buried. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 New artistic trends |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28042 Spain +34 91 722 5016 http://www.arco.ifema.es |
An important international event in the art world that brings together gallery directors from over 20 different countries, commercial agents, representatives from museums and other cultural institutions, collectors and artists. The works on show are examples of the finest contemporary art, with a special emphasis on the avant-garde and experimental. You can learn a lot about modern art by attending the lectures and debates. The first two days are reserved for professionals in the field only. General admission is EUR30, and EUR20 for students. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fernando Carmona  |
 Photo: Jorge Montero Tapia |
 Photo: Jorge Montero Tapia |
 Photo: Fernando Carmona |
 Photo: Vanessa Oniboni |
 Photo: petula yeyé |
 Treasures from the past |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28042 Spain +34 91 722 5074 http://www.almoneda.ifema.es |
This is your annual opportunity to view and buy from a selection of thousands of antiques and decorative period objects. You'll see furniture, paintings, prints, silverware, shawls, clothes, telephones, walking sticks and more on display. Everything is at least 50 years old and you'll come across pieces from all over the world. The more expensive items tend to be sculpture and furniture, lamps, paintings, porcelain, watches and carpets. Admission fee is EUR6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Huge antiques fair |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid 28042 Spain +34 91 722 5000 http://www.feriarte.ifema.es |
Known as Spain's major antiques fair, and the third most important in Europe, this event attracts dozens of dealers and gallery owners from all over the country. More than 30,000 items are on display, including furniture, paintings, sculpture, jewelry, clocks and textiles. Objects must be at least 100 years old, so you'll find Alfonsine, Edwardian, Classic, baroque, rustic and Oriental styles, as well as a few art deco pieces and paintings and sculpture by deceased 20th-Century artists. A panel of experts guarantees the authenticity of items. Admission is EUR6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Most prestigious bullfighting event |
Plaza de Toros de las Ventas Madrid 28027 Spain +34 91 3562200 http://www.las-ventas.com/sani... |
Spain's most important bullfighting event of the season lasts for a month from mid-May onwards. It attracts all the star bullfighters and is so popular that you will be very lucky to get in. The ticket office (10am-6pm) opens five days before the fights start and there are re-sale booths outside the ring that charge 20% extra. Most aficionados have to content themselves to watching the spectacle on TV. The world's most important bullring—Plaza de toros de las Ventas is the venue. Admission: EUR3.50-EUR105 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 The Goya bullfighting festival |
Plaza de Toros de las Ventas Madrid, Madrid 28027 Spain |
A mini-bullfighting festival that takes place two or three days prior to the May 2 celebrations (2 de Mayo) and acts as a sort of warm-up for the major bullfighting festival (Feria de San Isidro) that starts a few days later. Some of the country's outstanding young apprentice bullfighters are tested in the ring at this festival. The most eagerly awaited event is the spectacular corrida goyesca on the second day, when the bullfighters and their team of banderillos and picadors dress up in the sort of colourful 18 century costumes painted by the brilliant artist, Goya. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A Million Books On Sale |
Santiago Rusinol 8 Madrid, Madrid 28040 Spain +34 91 533 8836 http://www.ferialibromadrid.com/ |
Between the end of May and the middle of June, Madrid's Retiro Park turns into a giant open-air bookstore. You'll see a million volumes on display, including all the latest releases from the major Spanish and Latin American publishing houses. Join the bargain hunters and book-lovers and enjoy being in the park at the same time. It's well worth visiting, even if you're not buying. Free admission. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Teófilo |
 Photo: maryam m |
 Photo: Pakitroki |
 Photo: upyd |
 Photo: alberto mendoza |
 Flamenco roots, art and emotions |
Teatro Albéniz Paz, 11 Madrid 28012 Spain +34 91 531 8311 |
Madrid's most important flamenco festival brings together all the best singers, dancers and musicians on the current scene, old and young. You'll get the chance to see and hear the likes of Juan Carmona (Habichuela), Manuel Soto (Sordera), Jos de la Tomasa, Paco de Luca, Blanca del Rey and Enrique Morente. There's always a special event to pay tribute to a flamenco legend of the past and one of the festival's participating artists is awarded a prestigious prize. A few days before performances start, a program of parallel activities is organized that includes talks and presentations given by music critics and flamenco experts. Admission: EUR15-21. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A Display of Dance |
Plaza Mayor Madrid, Madrid 28012 Spain +34 91 730 1750 |
This is your opportunity to see a wide range of dance styles that includes innovative contemporary companies, circus performers, flamenco and classical dancers in up to 30 different shows in various venues across the city. Teatro Albniz, Teatro de Madrid, Centro Cultural de la Villa and Circulo de Bellas Artes are the principal stages. Famous names like Cullberg Ballet, David Parson, Victor Ullate, Lindsay Kemp, Joaquin Corts and Wim Vandekeybus have all performed here. It's a showcase event for young Spanish choreographers and for progressive foreign companies. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Famous photographers on display |
La Fábrica Alameda, 9 Madrid, Madrid 28014 Spain +34 91 360 1320 http://www.phedigital.com |
Madrid becomes photography capital of the world between June and July every year. Past festivals have featured different exhibitions under the common title of Femeninos. La identidad desde la perspectiva del gnero (Women. Identity from a gender perspective). It spotlighted some of the best work by recognized Spanish and foreign artists. The major exhibition venues are Centro Cultural de la Villa, Casa de Amrica, Circulo de Bellas Artes and Museo Reina Sofa, which are supplemented by 30 smaller, private galleries. Admission is free to some (but not all) venues. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Coming out of the closet |
Calle de Eloy Gonzalo 25 (Fundación Triángulo) Madrid 28010 Spain +34 91 593 0540 http://www.lesgaicinemad.com |
The Gay & Lesbian Film Festival in Madrid aims to spread the awareness of the homosexual, bisexual and transsexual communities. Various films pertaining to the possibilities of openness and acceptance are screened at various venues. Prizes are handed out for the best films. Come and lend support to Madrid's gay community and the gay community at large. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Jazz greats live in concert |
Avenida Gregorio del Amo 4 Avenida Gregorio del Amo, 4 Madrid 28040 Spain +34 91 534 2400 |
One of Madrid's most eagerly awaited annual festivals, the day is organized by San Juan Evangelista college's jazz club and it attracts legendary figures as great as Chick Corea, John McLaughlin, Dizzie Gillespie, Tony Williams, and Tete Montoli just name a few. The organizers are keen to attract students and a wide cross section of the general public to the event so they keep ticket prices low. Admission is EUR5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Theatre, music and international dance |
Plaza de España, 8 Dirección General de Promoción Cultural Madrid 28008 Spain +34 91 588 2900 (tourist office) http://www.madrid.org/clas_art... |
Madrid's major cultural showcase in the autumn fills most of the city's stages with theatre, dance and musical performances. Companies from various countries attend, and the festival traditionally starts with a show in Teatro Albo and others follow in the Bellas Artes, Sala Cuarta Pared, La Abad and other venues. In terms of dance, the Spanish program is outstanding as are the flamenco and classical music concerts and opera performances. Ticket prices vary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Madrid's most traditional fiestas |
Plaza Lavapiés Madrid 28012 Spain +34 91 540 4010 |
The locals get dressed up in traditional 19th-century costume, the streets are decorated and street parties are organized with live music where everyone drinks lemonade and eats aubergine fritters. These are Madrid's popular working class celebrations that involve religious processions in the evening leaving from churches on Calle Embajadores, Calle Salitre and Calle La Paloma. They take place from the first weekend in August to the middle of the month. They start with San Cayetano's feast day around Plaza de Cascorro, followed by San Lorenzo near Plaza de Lavapi and ends with La Paloma along Calle La Paloma and Las Vistillas park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Gay and Lesbian Pride |
Fuencarral, 37 COGAM (Colectivo de Lesbianas y Gays de Madrid) Madrid, Madrid 28004 Spain |
June 28 is the official Gay and Lesbian Pride Day, although festivities commemorating New York's Stonewall protests now last an entire week. The majority of events take place on Calle Pelayo in Chueca, Madrid's gay neighbourhood. There are organised events, including concerts, races (the high-heeled race is most fun), theatre shows and competitions. The most important event is the march for equal rights that brings together over 100000 people from all around Spain. Despite its political tone, it's a colourful, good-humoured occasion. It starts at Puerta de Alcalá and ends up at Puerta del Sol. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jose Luis Albert |
 Photo: Pablo Gabriel |
 Photo: lefthandrotation.com |
 Photo: Glenda Belusic |
 Photo: MadRod1968 |
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Traditional blessing of pets |
Iglesia de San Antón Hortaleza, 63 Madrid 28004 Spain |
Turn up at Church at midday on January 17 and you will witness an unusual religious tradition dating back to the 17th century. You will find a queue of people who have brought their domestic pets to be blessed by the priest. Later in the afternoon owners and pets parade several times round the church along with the statue of Saint Anthony, patron saint of animals. Traditional bread rolls are distributed as well, a popular custom that is meant to ensure that no one goes hungry in the coming year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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First summer party |
Recinto ferial Parque de la Bombilla Glorieta de San Antonio de la Florida Madrid 28008 Spain |
One of the city's first fiestas of the summertime provides locals with a good excuse to dress up, go walking, eat, drink, dance and listen to music. The religious part takes place in the morning of June 13, when the smartly dressed crowds visit San Antonio's chapel on the banks of the River Manzanares. Then there's lunch on the terraces or a picnic before heading to the fair ground with its stalls full of traditional products and drinks for sale, its children's amusement rides, and live pop and rock bands. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Katie Goldstein |
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Madrid's patron saint celebrations |
Plaza Mayor / Las Vistillas Madrid, Madrid 28012 Spain |
Madrid's fiesta par excellence is one of the few chances you'll get to see madrileos take a break from business to dress in traditional 19th-century costumes to head for the fair to visit San Isidoro's chapel. You'll see theatre shows, traditional dancing, pop, rock, folk and flamenco concerts in Plaza Mayor and Las Vistillas. The big day is the Sunday closest to May 15, when the Spanish Army serves an enormous batch of cocido madrileo (typical tripe stew) for the masses in Plaza Mayor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Osvaldo Gago |
 Photo: Marcus Kazmierczak |
 Photo: Gustavo Siles |
 Photo: Perinola Salas |
 Photo: ToxJCD |
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Plan your holiday |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28067 Spain +34 91 722 5074 http://www.fitur.ifema.es |
The world's second most important trade fair in tourism attracts thousands of companies (travel agents, hotel and tour operators, government bodies) from over 170 different countries who show off their best holiday ideas. The event is split into three sections: Fitur-Activo (active tourism) focuses on wilflife, adventure and cultural tourism; Know-how provides information to professionals in the sector, and Congresos is a forum for business discussions and public relations. The first three days are reserved for professionals only. The following two days are open to the public and feature a folklore festival in the concert hall with performances in the morning and afternoon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Whatever makes you happy |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28042 Spain +34 91 549 4800 http://www.expo-ocio.es/ |
Visit this trade fair to get good ideas and practical information on how best to enjoy your holidays and weekends. You'll see exhibitions covering rural tourism, adventure pursuits, camping, water sports, theme parks, telecommunications, photography and more. Two other trade fairs take place at the same time: one covers digital technology and multimedia while the other concentrates on consumer technology. There's also entertainment in the form of clowns, jugglers, theatre, dance, sports, gymnastics and other activities. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Open-air parties and other festivities |
Plaza del 2 de Mayo Las Vistillas Madrid, Madrid 28004 Spain |
These celebrations commemorate the population of Madrid's resistance to Napoleon's invasion on May 2, 1808. You'll see some of the most impressive outdoor festivities in Malasaa district. Every year on the night of May 1 there's a spectacular fireworks display in Jardines de las Vistillas (Vistillas Gardens) and a traditional military display in Plaza de Oriente during the afternoon. In addition, there are bullfights in Las Ventas ring. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Coin and stamp collectors' paradise |
Plaza Mayor Madrid, Madrid 28012 Spain +34 91 540 4010 |
Taking a trip to the Coin and Stamp Collector's Market in Plaza Mayor is a perfect excuse to get to know the area and visit the sites around the plaza. On Sunday mornings, the square is lined with stalls selling coins and stamps for collectors and enthusiasts alike. This square was once a venue for bullfights as well as trials and executions during the Inquisition and now hosts concerts in summer and a Christmas Market in December. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Bonfires & Street Parties Til Midnight |
Parque de la Cornisa (San Francisco el Grande) Madrid 28026 Spain |
Bonfires and fireworks light up the night skies on Jun 22 and 23 to celebrate the summer solstice, an ancient tradition that's becoming more and more popular in Madrid. Bring along any old furniture, broken toys or even papier-mache models of politicians you despise and throw them on the flames. Try popular meeting points like Parque de la Cornisa (next to San Francisco el Grande church), Parque de San Juan (Ciudad Lineal), open spaces in Hortaleza district or Vallecas and Vicaro fairgrounds if you want to join in the fun. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Busy streets and festive fun |
Puerta del Sol Plaza Mayor Madrid 28013 Spain +34 91 5404010 |
Christmas Day in Madrid is reserved for family celebrations and a visit to one of the spectacular nativity scenes which are always set up in Plaza Mayor, Palacio Real, Casa de Campo park and the Catedral de la Almudena. There is plenty of children's entertainment over the festive season, including puppet shows in Parque del Retiro, and a circus in Las Ventas bullring. From early December there's always a bustling Christmas market selling trees, lights, sweets and decorations in Plaza Mayor. Free admission. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Happy New Year |
Puerta de Sol Madrid, Madrid 28680 Spain |
Even in the country that loves to party every weekend, this is a special occasion. To celebrate properly you'll either want to go to a private party or head for the public festivities in Puerta del Sol. This is where thousands gather to see in the New Year to the sound of the chiming clock. The crowd keeps itself merry with cider and cava (sparkling wine) and it's all transmitted live on TV. You need to take along 12 grapes to eat with each chime of the clock in order to bring you good luck throughout the year. Sparkling wine helps wash the grapes down. Free admission. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steven Erat |
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Modern trade fair centre |
Gran Vía de Hortaleza Campo de las Naciones Madrid, Madrid 28033 Spain +34 91 722 5000 http://www.ifema.es/ |
This is a huge exhibition venue located to the north of the city, just 3 kilometres from Barajas airport. It has become first choice for dozens of national and international trade shows, including Fitur, Simo, Expo Ocio, Feriarte and the important contemporary art fair, Arco. There are eight enormous exhibition halls measuring between 5,400 and 16,200 square metres, along with parking for 14,000 vehicles, various cafes and restaurants, meeting rooms, exhibitors' and VIP's lounge, conference hall and media facilities. The Palacio Municipal de Congresos (Conference Centre), office buildings, luxury hotels, a park, and several important companies share the site. It opened in 1991 and has expanded to include two new exhibition halls and an extra 3,000 parking places. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Javier Oso |
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Spanish haute couture |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28042 Spain +34 91 722 5084 / +34 91 722 5000 http://www.cibeles.ifema.es |
Spain's most important and glamorous fashion showcase is intended to attract buyers from all over the world. It is part of Semana Internacional de la Moda (International Fashion Week)—an event that takes place twice a year. Outstanding Spanish designers like Javier Larrainzar, María José Navarro, Carmela Rosso, Victorio & Lucchino, Pedro del Hierro, and Agatha Ruiz de la Prada show their new creations here. Admission is by invitation only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Impressive religious celebrations |
Calle del Nuncio 14 Madrid, Madrid Spain +34 91 540 4010 |
The most spectacular part of Madrid's Easter celebrations during Semana Santa (Holy Week) are the religious processions. On Maundy Thursday, the Jess El Pobre (humble) procession sets out from San Pedro church (c/Nuncio, 15) at 7p. The popular Jess Nazareno procession leaves the Baslica de Jess de Medinacelli (Plaza de Jess, 2) at 7p on Good Friday. There's also a silent procession on Good Friday that winds its way along Calle Alcal to arrive at Puerta del Sol around 11p, bringing with it 800 participants, guards of honour and brass bands. On Holy Saturday, the procession of the Virgen Dolorosa leaves the Baslica de Jess de Medinacelli at 8a. That afternoon, the procession of Soledad sets out at 4.30p with a traditional band from the Monasterio del Corpus Christi (on Plaza Congreso de Miranda). It's worth tasting the typical sweets associated with these celebrations, called torrijas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ancient patron saint of Madrid |
Basílica de Atocha Madrid 28014 Spain |
On the first Sunday in October every year, the statue of the Virgen de Atocha is paraded through the streets, accompanied by the statue of Santo Domingo de Guzmn. Hundreds of faithful worshippers join the procession and appeal to the Virgin for relief from illness. This spiritual procession is a sight to behold and is free for spectators or for those who wish to join in the procession. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Madrid's largest and most popular flea-market |
Plaza de Cascorro (Plaza de Cascorro) Madrid 28005 Spain +34 91 588 2900 (tourist office) |
The capital's best-known street market fills up with people to the saturation point after noon, so if you want to wander around all the fascinating stalls in peace, you should arrive by 10a. You can stop for a drink or a bite to eat in neighboring cafes and then head for the Plaza de Cascorro, featuring the statue of Eloy Gonzalo, a Spanish soldier who challenged the Cubans in their war of independence with just a tin of petrol. Everything from clothes, furniture to house wares can be bought at this all encompassing market. No admission fee. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jose Luis Flores... |
 Photo: Jose Luis Flores... |
 Photo: Taylor Stevens |
 Photo: yannah |
 Photo: Siona |
 Photo: Jesus Villanueva |
 Photo: Cristina Fraga |
 Photo: Dali xyz |
 Photo: Elo Ito |
 Photo: Tabaré Miró |
 Photo: Grant Beecher |
 Photo: Francisco Javier Lóp |
 Photo: Mónica Martínez |
 Photo: debajo del olivo |
 Photo: juanjo gaspar |
 Photo: MOPO/NSN997 |
 Photo: ladix |
 Photo: La casilla |
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 One of the top clubs |
Avenida Concha Espina 1 Madrid, Madrid 28036 Spain +34 91 398 4300 http://www.realmadrid.es |
Considered one of the world's most successful soccer clubs, Real Madrid's trophy room overflows with cups, plaques and other awards. Founded in 1902, it boasts 70,000 affiliate members. It is the only club to have won as many as eight European Cup titles, 12 Regional Championships, 27 Spanish League titles, 17 King's Cup titles, eight European Champions League Cups and more. The Bernabéu Stadium Museum is also on site. Events are conducted throughout the year, check the website for more information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chaitanya Reddy |
 Photo: Isaiah Smallman |
 Photo: Amy Swacina |
 Photo: Brian Conley |
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Digital film-making at its best |
Ronda Valencia 2 Casa Encendida Madrid 28012 Spain +34 91 506 3875 (Venue) http://resfest.com |
The Resfest Digital Film Festival tours to various cities all over the globe. Held in December at Madrid, it is an interesting festival for anyone keen on groundbreaking original works. Come and watch digital shorts, long forms and full length features, which span from 12 to 30 minutes and longer. Catch different music videos, animations and films from creators like the bold Swede Traktor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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New technology, new models and sales |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28042 Spain +34 90 222 1515 http://www.automovil-madrid.if... |
Most major motor manufacturers display their new models here and show off their advances in design, safety and fuel consumption. Representatives from related industries also attend, so you'll see bodywork specialists, tyre manufacturers, lubricant makers, audio and electronics firms among others. You can try out the car of your choice and even have a go in a 4x4 on a special track. There's usually an exhibition of luxury or vintage cars along with a programme of lectures and discussions for industry professionals. With attendance figures of over 900000 visitors and high sales figures, it is not surprising that so many brand names are eager to be on display. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Antonio Gómez |
 Photo: 3demotions.com |
 Photo: mgtroyas |
 Photo: Miguel Angel_Eivisso |
 Photo: Gonzalo Andrés |
 Photo: Mayte Gómez |
 Photo: ShootTheMoon1 |
 Photo: elhombrequenoduerme |
 Photo: Marius Gabriel Costache |
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Other art media on show |
Avenida de Portugal (Recinto Ferial de la Casa de Campo-Pabellón La Pipa) Madrid 28011 Spain +34 91 588 9393 |
The focus of this event is contemporary prints (including lithographs, etchings, silkscreen, and aquatints) for sale at prices the public can afford (from EUR300). Over a hundred exhibitors show work by famous artists like Picasso, Saura, and Miró alongside the new generation of Ignacio Casares, María Velasco, and Juan de Sande. Engravings and rare etchings, as well as digital prints, video images, photographs, and holographs are also on display. Other activities include book presentations, conferences and organized debates. Call for admission prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spain's finest wines |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28067 Spain +34 91 426 0780 http://www.salondelvino.com |
Madrid becomes the world's wine capital for a few days during this showcase event when over 100 Spanish wine-makers present their best wines to an audience of importers, exporters, restaurateurs, professional wine-tasters, journalists, and salesmen. The first two days are exclusively for professionals and then the public are allowed in on the third day to learn about, taste and buy wines from Spain, France, Italy, Portugal, and New Zealand. There are organised discussion sessions, conferences, and tastings. Professionals require proof of ID and accreditation. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: antoniogarrido.es |
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All types of boats |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28042 Spain +34 91 722 3000 http://www.salonnauticodemadri... |
You will see all the latest new designs of motorboats, yachts, inflatable dinghies, catamarans, jet-skis, canoes, and kayaks on display here alongside a selection of accessories for fishing, windsurfing, scuba diving, and other watersports. Each annual event brings together about 100 exhibiting companies and attracts around 20000 visitors. Last year you could have bought additional equipment as diverse as trailers, motors, clothes and other accessories. Sailing schools, sports federations, yacht marinas, official organizations and the specialized press all participate. There are educational activities and competitions with prizes to be won. Admission: EUR10 (general public) and EUR5 (with preinscription). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Food fair for professionals |
Calle De La Feria Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28037 Spain +34 90 222 1515 http://www.alimentacion.ifema.es |
Professionals in the food and drinks trade flock to this annual fair to check out the latest innovations in the market. More than 300 companies set up their stalls, including food producers and distributors along with the regulatory boards for wine, cheese and meat. You will see an exhibition of equipment that can be used for storing, displaying and conserving foodstuffs, as well as state-of-the-art computer software tailored especially to the industry. In addition, there are conferences, presentations, and promotional events. Admission: EUR14. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Start up your own business |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28042 Spain +34 91 722 3000 http://www.expofranquicia.ifem... |
Find out how to start your own franchise operation. You can get information and advice from a selection of up to 200 franchise operators working in a variety of business sectors including hotel and catering, fashion and textiles, food production and retailing, IT and telecommunications or tourism. The daily conferences, seminars and consultancy services are free. Admission applies. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Gym equipment and products |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28042 Spain +34 91 722 5074 http://www.fitness.ifema.es |
An important annual event for fitness fanatics. You can see all the latest equipment on display, ranging from traditional gymnastics apparatus to high-tech machines that incorporate video screens and information about your heart rate. You'll also find solariums, saunas, special dietary products, sports clothes and training programmes. To add a little fun and games to the event, the organisers put on sports competitions, exhibitions and aerobic classes that you're free to join in. In addition, there are conferences for those who work in the industry. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Students, education & job prospects |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28042 Spain +34 91 722 5074 http://www.ifema.es/ferias/aul... |
This fair is aimed at providing students, parents and teachers with information on the Spanish education system and future job prospects for school and university students. You can find out about primary, secondary, university and post-grad courses, as well as language, professional and technical programmes. You can buy text books, encyclopedias and atlases. The Spanish Education and Science Ministry, the National Employment Institute (INEM), the Community of Madrid, the Ministry of Defence and a variety of NGOs take part in the accompanying seminars, conferences and other activities. Admission costs EUR2.50; EUR25 for groups. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Guaranteed second-hand cars |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid, Madrid 28042 Spain +34 90 222 1515 http://www.vehiculo-ocasion.if... |
Spain's major second-hand car market is well worth a visit if you're thinking of buying a car. You'll see examples of all makes and models including family cars, people-carriers, 4x4s, commercial vehicles and motorbikes. All of them are checked by an independent company that guarantees they are in good condition. You can even take a test drive. Up to a hundred authorised dealerships and independent showrooms participate along with insurance companies and credit houses. Admission fee is EUR3. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Gift and accessories market |
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I Ifema Madrid 28042 Spain +34 91 7225000 http://www.intergift.ifema.es |
This is a special event bringing together over 1800 different companies from three separate sectors of the gift industry. It is designed to attract professionals working in the industry. The Intergift section concentrates on gifts, basketwork, flower arrangements and handicrafts. The Iberjoya section displays the latest innovations on the national and international jewelery markets (gold and silver, gemstones, pearls and watches). And finally, the Bisutex section exhibits this year's trends in jewellery and accessories. It is one of the largest trade fairs of its type, and admission is free for professionals in the field. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spectacular Outdoor Shows |
Various venues Madrid 28005 Spain +34 (0)91 588 2900 (Tourist Information) |
Madrid's Town Hall organises outdoor cultural events that run throughout the summer months. Events include theater, dance, zarzuela (Spanish opera), cabaret, and cinema. The main venues include cuartel del Conde Duque (concerts and contemporary dance), La Muralla Arabe (theater), La Corrala (zarzuela), Parque de la Bombilla (cinema), and Parque del Retiro's Festival de Teres de Madrid (Puppet Theater). There are indoor shows as well, at Centro Cultural de la Villa (zarzuela) and Pradillo, and El Canto de la Cabra (theater). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cheer on Atletico Madrid Football |
Paseo Virgen del Puerto 67 Madrid 28005 Spain +34 91 366 4707 http://www.clubatleticodemadri... |
Originally named "Estadio Manzanares," the stadium's name changed to honor Vicente Calderon, one of the most important presidents in Atletico Madrid Football Club history. The stadium holds up to 55,000 fans eager to see brutal regional, national and international football competitions. Be sure to stop by the 1903 Atletico Madrid Football Megastore between gates 25 and 26 to pick up some official Atletico gear and show your support for the home team. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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