October turns Madrid into a vibrant stage where culture, leisure and food converge to create unique experiences. As autumn begins, the city comes alive with events ranging from music and art festivals to food tours and outdoor activities – perfect for enjoying the cooler days and lively nights. Whether you are a local or a visitor, explore what to do in Madrid this October 2025 to make sure you don’t miss a thing.
Hispanic Heritage Day
Hispanic Heritage Day, celebrated every 12 October, is one of the most emblematic dates in Madrid’s cultural calendar. In 2025, the celebration falls on a Saturday, when the city will host more than 200 activities filling its streets and iconic landmarks with music, theatre, folklore, visual arts and literature.
This year, the guest country will be Argentina, making the fifth edition a true transatlantic tribute with something to suit all tastes. From the historic Plaza Mayor to Puerta del Sol, both locals and visitors will come together to celebrate diversity, creativity and the richness of Hispanic heritage.
“Maruja Mallo. Mask and Compass” exhibition
One of the major cultural highlights in Madrid this October is the arrival at the Reina Sofía Museum of the most comprehensive retrospective to date dedicated to Maruja Mallo. The exhibition brings together nearly 100 works that trace Mallo’s remarkable artistic journey, from her experiments with magical realism to her exploration of surrealism.
Alongside her paintings, visitors will encounter drawings, audiovisual pieces and personal documents, offering an in-depth look at the career of a key figure of the Generation of ’27. It is an unmissable opportunity to discover – or rediscover – the work of this groundbreaking artist in the heart of Madrid.
Oktoberfest Madrid
This October, the Hipódromo de la Zarzuela (Zarzuela Racecourse) will once again become the meeting point for beer enthusiasts with a new edition of Oktoberfest Madrid. Inspired by the legendary Munich festival, the event promises two days of German-themed fun, complete with live music, DJs and an exceptional selection of craft and traditional imported beers.
The programme also features special attractions such as a classic German market, traditional culinary delights, and – as a unique highlight – the chance to pair Sunday’s celebrations with thrilling horse races. The event is open to all ages (children must be accompanied by an adult) and includes free parking.
Architecture Week
In October, design and city enthusiasts have an unmissable opportunity with the 22nd Architecture Week, organised by the COAM Architecture Foundation. This year, Portugal is the guest country, and the headquarters of the Official College of Architects of Madrid (Calle de Hortaleza, 63) will serve as the hub for exhibitions, conferences and guided tours.
The event will also host its popular Pop Arq Store, a market showcasing young creators and innovative projects. It is, without doubt, the perfect week to rediscover Madrid through the lens of architecture and creativity.
Record Fair
During the weekend of 11 and 12 October 2025, the Convention Pavilion at the Casa de Campo Fairgrounds will come alive with the highly anticipated Record Fair. A haven for music lovers and collectors, the event brings together numerous stalls offering vinyl records, CDs, rare finds and a wide range of memorabilia related to your favourite bands.
Halloween 2025
Although it may still feel a little way off, Halloween is just around the corner. This year, altars for the dead take centre stage with exhibitions at the Casa de México and the Centro Cultural de la Villa, where visitors can enjoy creative workshops, guided tours and activities for all ages.
For thrill-seekers, Madrid’s Halloween scene offers immersive experiences such as the classic horror arcade, El Viejo Caserón, at Madrid’s amusement park, as well as scare zones and themed shows at Parque Warner Madrid. The more adventurous can test their nerves in horror escape rooms like La Maldición de los Balaguer.
Concerts in Madrid in October
October is brimming with musical highlights, spanning legendary rock to contemporary pop. Among the unmissable events is the long-awaited return of Patti Smith, the international rock icon, who will celebrate the 50th anniversary of her seminal album Horses at the Teatro Real on 8 October.
Excitement continues with Vanesa Martín, who will kick off her 2025 tour at the Movistar Arena on 4 October. Rising Spanish pop star Belén Aguilera will take to the same stage on 12 October, while Joaquín Sabina bids his farewell to the stage with his Hola y adiós tour.
Trap enthusiasts can look forward to Duki’s powerful performances with a triple show at the Movistar Arena on 27, 28 and 29 October. Adding even more variety to the city’s musical calendar, Guitarricadelafuente will perform on 25 October.
Madrid weather in October
October is a transitional month in Madrid, as summer gradually gives way to autumn, bathing the city in warm hues and a more relaxed atmosphere. The weather is particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures that make outdoor activities especially enjoyable.
Daytime highs generally range between 20–23°C, while nighttime lows drop to around 10–12°C, making October one of the best times to stroll through iconic parks such as El Retiro or explore the city’s historic neighbourhoods without the stifling summer heat or winter chill.
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