Semana Santa 2025, also known as Holy Week, is one of the most revered religious and cultural events in the Christian calendar, commemorating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Predominantly celebrated in Catholic countries, it features solemn processions, colorful customs, and community gatherings. In 2025, Semana Santa runs from Palm Sunday, April 13 to Easter Sunday, April 20.
This guide explores key dates, traditions worldwide—with a focus on iconic celebrations in Spain and Latin America—and tips for experiencing it respectfully.
Key Dates for Semana Santa 2025
Semana Santa follows the lunar calendar, always spanning from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday:
- Palm Sunday (Domingo de Ramos): April 13 – Commemorates Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem; features processions with palm branches.
- Holy Monday to Wednesday: April 14–16 – Time for meditations and smaller processions.
- Maundy Thursday (Jueves Santo): April 17 – Remembers the Last Supper; includes foot-washing ceremonies.
- Good Friday (Viernes Santo): April 18 – Marks the Crucifixion; the most solemn day with silent processions.
- Holy Saturday: April 19 – Easter Vigil and anticipation.
- Easter Sunday (Domingo de Resurrección): April 20 – Joyful celebration of the Resurrection.
Many countries declare public holidays from Thursday through Sunday (or Monday in some regions).
Semana Santa in Spain: Pageantry and Processions of Faith
Spain hosts some of the world’s most extravagant Semana Santa celebrations, especially in Andalusia. Declared events of International Tourist Interest, they involve brotherhoods (hermandades) carrying massive floats (pasos), hooded penitents (nazarenos), incense, and emotional saetas (flamenco-style religious songs).
Highlights by City
- Seville: The grandest, with over 60 brotherhoods and dramatic nighttime processions. La Madrugá (early Good Friday) is legendary for its intensity.
- Málaga: Theatrical, featuring enormous thrones carried by “hombres de trono”; a mix of festive and solemn.
- Others: Granada (against the Alhambra backdrop), Valladolid (Renaissance sculptures), Zamora (austere silence).
Book accommodations early—cities overflow with visitors!
Semana Santa in Latin America: Colorful Carpets and Street Theatre
In Latin America, Catholic traditions blend with indigenous elements for vibrant expressions:
- Guatemala (Antigua): World-famous for intricate alfombras—elaborate carpets of colored sawdust, flowers, and fruit created overnight and walked over by processions. Solemn yet visually stunning.
- Mexico: Dramatic passion plays; thousands reenact the crucifixion in Iztapalapa (Mexico City). San Luis Potosí features chilling silent processions.
Other countries like Peru, Colombia, and Paraguay add local flair with candle-lit walks or indigenous dances.
How to Experience Semana Santa 2025 to the Fullest
Travel Planning
Book flights and hotels early; expect crowds and higher rates.
Respect Traditions
Dress modestly, stay silent during solemn moments, and avoid stepping on alfombras.
Food Highlights
Try torrijas (Spanish fried bread), traditional sweets, or seafood (no meat on Good Friday in many places).
Safety Tips
Guard belongings in crowds; follow local guidelines.
Whether religious or cultural, Semana Santa offers profound reflection, beauty, and community.
Semana Santa 2025 FAQs
When is Semana Santa 2025?
April 13 (Palm Sunday) to April 20 (Easter Sunday).
Where are the most famous celebrations?
Spain (Seville, Málaga) and Guatemala (Antigua) for spectacular processions and carpets.
Is it a public holiday?
Yes in many countries (e.g., Spain: Maundy Thursday to Easter Monday in some regions; varies in Latin America).
Can non-religious people enjoy it?
Absolutely—it’s a cultural spectacle with art, music, and community.
How to avoid crowds?
Arrive early for prime spots; use apps to track processions.
Don’t miss Semana Santa 2025—an unforgettable blend of faith, tradition, and beauty!