Festive address and street parade with giants and big-head figures

On 7 May, one of the most emblematic events of the San Isidro festivities will once again make its way through the central streets of Madrid: the procession of giants and big-head figures.

The procession will set off from the Museo de Artes y Tradiciones Populares de Madrid and make its way through the city’s old neighbourhoods, gradually filling the streets with music and movement. The giant figures and characters with exaggerated facial features will move to the rhythm of traditional instruments, turning the route into an uninterrupted street spectacle.

Among the participants are familiar figures: Julián and Mari Pepa, Alfonso VI, La Latina, Manolita Malasaña and the mayor of Móstoles. Alongside them are the big-head figures, which interact with the public and set the rhythm for the entire procession.

The tradition of giants and big-head figures came to Spain from medieval religious processions. At first, these figures appeared during religious festivities, representing biblical characters and historical figures. Over time, they moved beyond the bounds of religious ceremonies and became part of popular festivities, retaining their spectacular character and their link with street culture.

In Madrid, these characters have accompanied the San Isidro festivities for more than half a century and have gradually become one of their visual symbols.

The procession will end in Plaza de la Villa, where the festive address will be delivered at 20:00.