Pilar neighbourhood festivities

The Barrio del Pilar celebrations return with a full programme of free leisure activities in La Vaguada park. From 8 to 12 October, northern Madrid will enjoy five days of festivities with offerings ranging from major concerts to activities designed for children, young people and older people. The event is firmly established as one of the capital’s most eagerly awaited autumn occasions.

Music will be one of the main attractions. Nacha Pop will take the stage on 9 October with songs that marked a whole generation. On the 11th it will be Efecto Pasillo’s turn, accompanied by tribute acts G Band and Ardiya, while the final flourish will come from Shaila Dúrcal with a journey into Mexican music on 12 October. The programme will open with the neighbourhood bands competition, which will give local bands a platform on the 8th.

For the first time, young people will have their own festival: Noche Joven, on 10 October, which will bring together emerging artists such as Álvaro Mayo, Paula Koops, JM and Twin Melody. Younger children will enjoy Children’s Day with climbing walls, street games and theatre, while older audiences will have their moment on Older People’s Day with hot chocolate and fireworks in La Alcazaba. The programme is completed by a multicultural parade on Hispanic Day, in which groups from Peru, Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela will bring traditional music and dances to the neighbourhood streets, reinforcing the diverse character of these festivities.