4th of July and Gay Pride in Madrid!

For all you Americans out there, 4th of July is happening in Madrid with a bang this year! Between the second largest gay pride parade in the world, and numerous American style restaurants to choose from, we’re planning to have as much fun as we would in the states!

As an American myself, I hold a very special place in my heart for the 4th of July. The words alone evoke the smell of BBQ, the sounds of kids screaming excitedly as they catch candy from passing floats, water gun fights, and afternoons by the river. Growing up in a small New England town, the 4th of July has always been as much about community as anything and I was very nervous about losing that tradition when I arrived in Madrid three years ago. But, though there are a few things you can’t capture when celebrating abroad (my hometown happens to have a bizarre tradition of racing outhouses down Main Street that I haven’t found anywhere else in the states, let alone Spain), celebrating in Madrid is tons of fun and we have a great community of Americans here!

This year is 4th of July and Gay Pride in Madrid! So be sure not to miss out:

Madrid Pride 2018 

If you don’t feel like leaving the city center, the second largest pride celebration in the world is happening right here in Madrid. With parades, concerts, protests, parties, and more, there is a little something for everyone. Even sitting in a café and watching some of the incredible costumes and outfits pass by can be like a 4th of July parade in and of itself! For a full program of events, check out the Madrid Pride 2018 calendar. For further information about the Gay Pride Week in Madrid you can read about it in our last post.

BBQs, Diners, and A Taste of America 

If you just want to enjoy with friends or share the tradition with your new Spanish friends, there are a few great options for a low-key day. First off is the beloved terraza BBQ (if you have enough space, or substitute with an oven): if you are searching for any US-specific products, try The Taste of America (they have several stores throughout the city). If you don’t feel like hosting, there are also a number of American diner themed restaurants throughout the city, such as Tommy Mel’s and Peggy Sue’s.

Whatever you choose to do, there are plenty of ways to celebrate your home country in your newly adopted one! As for this American, I’ll be focusing on what 4th of july has always meant for me: a tight-knit community of people who enjoy a good adventure…