School Blog

From September 12 to 19, 2026, Granada will once again become a major stage for one of Andalusia’s most deeply rooted art forms: flamenco. The Granada es Flamenco 365 festival will bring a week of performances and cultural activities to some of the city’s most iconic and historic locations.

Carmen houses, viewpoints, squares and heritage venues will come alive with music, dance and tradition, creating a unique experience where Granada’s cultural heritage meets the passion of flamenco. This year’s programme features some of the most important names in contemporary flamenco, including Estrella Morente, Manuel Liñán and Eva Yerbabuena, representing different generations and styles within the genre.

For those studying and living in Granada, a festival like this is also a wonderful opportunity to discover local culture and experience the city from a different perspective. At Escuela Montalbán, where students from all over the world come to learn Spanish and discover Granada, events such as Granada es Flamenco 365 offer a unique chance to experience one of Andalusia’s most important cultural traditions first-hand.

Throughout the week, Granada will once again show why flamenco is such an essential part of its cultural identity. The programme will culminate in a closing concert, inviting both locals and visitors to enjoy flamenco in settings that make every performance a truly special experience.

Granada es Flamenco 365 is not only an opportunity to discover flamenco, but also a way to discover Granada itself: its historic spaces, its heritage, its atmosphere and its culture. It is an unmissable event for anyone who wants to experience the city and connect with a tradition that continues to evolve while remaining deeply connected to its roots.

At Escuela Montalbán, we encourage our students to make the most of this special week: explore the city, visit its beautiful venues and experience Granada through its music, dance and art.

If you are studying Spanish with us this summer, you are in for a magical treat. One of Andalusia's most spectacular cultural events is returning to Granada. The "Lorca y Granada en los Jardines del Generalife" festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary from July 31st to August 29th, 2026.

This annual festival merges the immortal poetry of Federico García Lorca with the raw passion of flamenco, all set inside the breathtaking open-air theatre of the Alhambra’s Generalife gardens. It is the perfect opportunity to practice your Spanish listening skills while soaking up genuine Andalusian culture under the summer stars.

Every show starts at 22:00 h, making it a perfect post-tapas night out. Here is what you can catch this year:

• "Las gitanas cantan y bailan a Lorca" (July 31 – August 15, Tuesday to Saturday): A powerful performance showcasing top flamenco artists like Manuela Carrasco and Pastora Galván.
• "Tierra bendita, tierra vieja del candil" (August 19 – 22): A mesmerizing production by the official Ballet Flamenco de Andalucía.
• Omega 30th Anniversary Concert: A special musical celebration honoring the legendary rock-flamenco fusion album based on Lorca's poems.
• Get early bird tickets: General tickets cost 35 €, but if you buy them before July 30th, you can grab them for just 23 €.
• Where to buy: You can get them online or physically at the Corral del Carbón kiosk in the city center starting July 15th.
• Bring a light jacket: Even in August, the gardens can get surprisingly fresh late at night!
  
  

Don't miss this unforgettable cultural experience. If you want to go with your classmates, ask at the school reception and we can help you book your tickets!

Looking for things to do in Granada in summer? One of the city's most memorable cultural experiences is the Summer Open-Air Cinema at the Sacromonte Cave Museum. Combining great films, spectacular views and the unique atmosphere of Granada's historic Sacromonte district, this outdoor cinema is a must for both visitors and students.

If you're studying Spanish at Escuela Montalbán or spending your holidays in Granada, don't miss the chance to enjoy a film beneath the stars in one of the city's most beautiful locations. Experience Open-Air Cinema in an unique setting The Sacromonte Cave Museum is one of Granada's most distinctive cultural attractions. Located on the hillside opposite the Alhambra, the museum preserves the history and traditions of the famous cave dwellings that have been part of Sacromonte life for centuries. During the summer, the museum transforms into an open-air cinema where visitors can watch carefully selected films surrounded by nature, history and breathtaking scenery. The combination of warm evenings, fresh mountain air and panoramic views makes every screening a truly unforgettable experience.

The summer cinema programme offers a varied selection of films, including international productions, independent cinema, documentaries and classic movies. Many screenings are presented in their original language, creating an ideal environment for cinema lovers and language learners.

Watching a film outdoors is also a wonderful way to experience Granada's lively cultural scene while visiting one of its most authentic neighbourhoods.

At Escuela Montalbán, we believe that learning Spanish continues outside the classroom. Cultural activities help students practise the language, meet people from different countries and gain a deeper understanding of Spanish life and traditions. An evening at the Summer Open-Air Cinema is an excellent opportunity to combine entertainment with cultural immersion. Depending on the programme, students may also benefit from films with Spanish or English subtitles, making the experience enjoyable for learners of all levels.

Arrive early and take time to explore the historic Sacromonte neighbourhood. Famous for its cave houses, flamenco heritage and incredible viewpoints, it is one of Granada's most picturesque areas. The museum itself offers fascinating exhibitions about traditional cave life, local crafts and the cultural history of Sacromonte. Watching the sunset over the Alhambra before the film begins makes the evening even more special.

If you're searching for summer activities in Granada, the Summer Open-Air Cinema at the Sacromonte Cave Museum should definitely be on your list. Whether you're a film enthusiast, a traveller looking for authentic local experiences or a student learning Spanish at Escuela Montalbán, this unique event offers the perfect combination of culture, history and entertainment.

Spend a warm summer evening under the stars, discover one of Granada's most fascinating neighbourhoods and enjoy cinema in an unforgettable setting. It's an experience that captures the true spirit of Granada.

Every summer, Granada becomes one of Europe’s most vibrant cultural destinations thanks to the Granada International Festival of Music and Dance. In 2026, the festival celebrates its 75th anniversary, making it an especially significant edition for music and dance lovers from around the world. From 11 June to 12 July 2026, Granada will host an outstanding programme of concerts, dance performances, flamenco shows, and artistic events in some of the city’s most spectacular historic venues. The festival brings together internationally renowned musicians, orchestras, conductors, and dance companies, creating a unique blend of culture, history, and artistic excellence.

A festival with a rich history: Founded in 1952, the Granada International Festival of Music and Dance has grown into one of Spain’s most prestigious cultural events. Its origins can be traced back to the symphonic concerts held in the Palace of Charles V within the Alhambra complex at the end of the 19th century.

Today, the festival is internationally recognised for its exceptional artistic quality and for the extraordinary beauty of its venues. Few festivals in the world offer the opportunity to enjoy world-class performances surrounded by the architectural and cultural heritage of Granada.

Celebrating the 75th edition: The 2026 edition promises a special anniversary programme featuring some of the most respected names in classical music and dance. Audiences will be able to enjoy performances by internationally acclaimed artists, orchestras, and conductors, alongside contemporary productions, Spanish dance, and flamenco performances.

One of the festival’s greatest attractions is its setting. Concerts and performances take place in iconic locations such as the Alhambra, the Generalife Gardens, the Palace of Charles V, historic churches, and other remarkable monuments throughout the city. These unique venues create an unforgettable atmosphere where art and history come together.

Alongside the main programme, the festival’s outreach programme, known as FEX (Festival Extension), offers a wide variety of free cultural events across Granada and nearby towns. Open-air concerts, dance performances, and artistic activities bring culture closer to local residents and visitors alike, transforming the entire city into a stage.

For students and travellers, FEX provides an excellent opportunity to experience Spanish culture in a relaxed and accessible environment.

For international students at Escuela Montalbán, the festival offers much more than entertainment. It is a chance to immerse themselves in Spanish culture, discover the rich artistic traditions of Andalusia, and experience Granada at one of the most exciting times of the year. Attending a concert in the Alhambra, enjoying a flamenco performance under the stars, or sharing cultural experiences with people from around the world can enrich the language-learning journey and provide unforgettable memories.

The Granada International Festival of Music and Dance is one of the highlights of the city’s cultural calendar. Whether you are passionate about classical music, dance, flamenco, or simply looking for an authentic cultural experience during your stay in Spain, the 2026 festival offers a unique opportunity to discover Granada from a different perspective.

At Escuela Montalbán, we encourage our students to take advantage of the many cultural activities that Granada has to offer—and the 75th edition of this remarkable festival is certainly not to be missed.

Celebrate the Night of San Juan in Granada: A Magical Evening at the Sacromonte Cave Museum

Every year on 23 June, Spain celebrates one of its most enchanting traditions: the Night of San Juan. Marking the arrival of summer, this special evening is associated with fire, light, renewal and celebration. Across the country, people gather with family and friends to enjoy festivities that combine ancient customs with a vibrant summer atmosphere.

In Granada, one of the most unique places to experience this celebration is the Sacromonte Cave Museum. Located on the hillside of the Valparaíso Valley, the museum offers spectacular views of the Alhambra, the city of Granada and the Sierra Nevada mountains, making it a perfect setting for a memorable summer night.

For the Night of San Juan, the museum hosts a special cultural event that brings together local traditions, music, heritage and community spirit. Visitors can explore the traditional cave dwellings of Sacromonte and discover the history and lifestyle that have shaped this fascinating neighbourhood for centuries.

Sacromonte is famous for its cave houses, its strong connection to Granada’s Roma heritage and its flamenco traditions. During the Night of San Juan, the neighbourhood takes on a particularly magical atmosphere, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience one of Spain’s most beloved midsummer celebrations in an authentic setting.

For our Spanish students, attending this event is a wonderful way to learn more about Spanish culture beyond the classroom. It provides the chance to practise Spanish, meet local people and enjoy a tradition that has been celebrated for generations.

The Night of San Juan is a celebration of new beginnings, the start of summer and the joy of sharing special moments with others. Experiencing this tradition at the Sacromonte Cave Museum is an unforgettable way to discover another side of Granada and its rich cultural heritage.

We invite all our students to join this magical evening and celebrate the arrival of summer in one of Granada’s most iconic locations.

Every spring, Granada celebrates one of its most important and beloved festivals: the Corpus Christi Fair. In 2026, the celebrations will take place from May 30th to June 6th, filling the city with music, colour, tradition and joy.

Corpus Christi is originally a religious celebration with centuries of history, but in Granada it is also one of the city’s biggest popular festivals. During this special week, the atmosphere changes completely: the streets are decorated, the famous “carocas” — humorous drawings and poems — appear in the city centre, and the fairground comes alive with music, attractions, concerts and traditional food.

One of the most famous events of the week is “La Tarasca”, a traditional parade held on the Wednesday before Corpus Christi. The parade includes giant figures, musicians and “big heads” (cabezudos), but the star of the event is a woman riding a dragon-like creature. Every year, many locals also comment on the clothes worn by La Tarasca, as they often become a topic of fashion discussion in Granada.

The most important day of the festival is Thursday, June 4th, which is a local holiday in Granada. On this day, the solemn Corpus Christi procession takes place in the historic city centre. The streets fill with people watching the religious parade, accompanied by music, local authorities and many residents dressed elegantly or in traditional Andalusian style.

At night, the celebration continues at the fairground in Almanjáyar. There, visitors can enjoy “casetas” — festive tents where people dance sevillanas, eat tapas, listen to flamenco music and celebrate until late at night. Unlike some other Andalusian fairs, many of Granada’s casetas are public and open to everyone, making it easy for international students and visitors to join the experience.

The Corpus Fair is a perfect opportunity to discover Andalusian culture and experience Granada in a unique way. Religion, humour, flamenco, gastronomy and celebration all come together during one of the city’s most exciting weeks of the year.

If you are in Granada during Corpus week… get ready for an unforgettable experience!

On May 3rd, Granada comes alive with one of its most vibrant and beloved traditions: Día de la Cruz (Day of the Cross). On this special day, the city’s streets, squares, and courtyards are beautifully decorated with floral crosses, colorful shawls, and traditional ornaments, creating a unique and festive atmosphere.

For our school, this celebration is a wonderful opportunity for international students to experience Spanish culture firsthand. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in local traditions, enjoy music and typical food, and connect with the lively spirit of Granada.

We encourage all our students to explore the city, discover the most creative crosses, and interact with locals. It’s also the perfect moment to practice your Spanish in a real-life setting while enjoying an unforgettable cultural experience.

Don’t miss this special day—join the celebration and discover Granada at its most festive!

Granada is getting ready for one of its most magical nights: La Noche en Blanco, this Friday, April 24th. An evening when the city transforms into a vibrant stage filled with culture, art, music, and unique experiences that invite you to discover Granada from a whole new perspective.

At our Spanish school, we are excited to be part of this special celebration by opening our doors to students, travelers, and anyone passionate about language and culture. Because learning Spanish is not just about attending classes — it’s about living the city, feeling its energy, and connecting with its people.

During La Noche en Blanco, we invite you to join us for a different kind of experience: cultural workshops, language exchanges, and engaging activities designed to help you practice Spanish naturally while enjoying the lively atmosphere that fills the streets of Granada.

If you’re in the city, this is the perfect opportunity to meet us, discover our teaching approach, and become part of an international community learning Spanish in a dynamic and personal way.

And if you’re not in Granada yet… this night might just be the inspiration you need to come.

Live the language. Live Granada. Experience La Noche en Blanco with us.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Every spring, Granada fills with light, color, and joy to welcome one of its most anticipated celebrations: the “Abril para vivir” festival. This event transforms the city into a vibrant stage where music, culture, and community come together to create an unforgettable experience.

For several days, the streets, squares, and iconic corners of Granada host open-air concerts, cultural activities, and gatherings that invite both locals and international students to immerse themselves in the Andalusian spirit. From traditional sounds to contemporary performances, the festival offers a diverse program that reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage.

For our Spanish students, “Abril para vivir” is much more than a festival—it’s a unique opportunity to practice the language in a real-life setting, meet new people, and discover local traditions in an authentic and exciting way. Taking part in this event means experiencing Granada from within, feeling its energy, and becoming part of its cultural life.

At our school, we encourage all our students to enjoy this experience, explore the city, and embrace the festive atmosphere that makes April one of the most special times of the year. Because learning Spanish is also about living it—and there’s no better moment than this.

For further information visit the festival website

Holy Week in Granada is one of the most moving and spectacular celebrations of the year. During this special week from 29.03 to 05.04.2026, the city becomes a living stage where history, tradition, and emotion come together in a truly unforgettable way.

Processions wind through Granada’s historic center, the Albaicín, and areas surrounding the Alhambra, creating breathtaking scenes against the backdrop of centuries-old monuments. The sound of drums and solemn marching music fills the streets, while candlelight, incense, and moments of profound silence create a powerful and emotional atmosphere. Each brotherhood carefully prepares every detail, from the religious statues and flower arrangements to the traditional robes worn by the participants.

Experiencing Holy Week in Granada is not only a religious event but also a unique cultural experience, even for non-religious visitors. It offers the perfect opportunity to discover Andalusian traditions, enjoy local seasonal cuisine, and feel the deep cultural identity of the city. For visitors and students alike, Holy Week is a remarkable way to connect with Granada’s history and soul.