• Just over an hour from Madrid is Almonacid del Marquesado, where for 4 days in February 150 dancing devils take over the streets in this bizarre local tradition that tourists can’t get enough of 

26th January 2026: For most Brits, the start of February marks the last gloomy month before Spring starts to pick up, with many looking for ways to add a bit of heat and excitement.  

According to the travel experts at First Choice holidays there is a small town in Spain that does just that.  

About an hour and a half outside the capital of Madrid, sits the village of Almonacid del Marquesado.  

For most of the year, this sleepy spot offers a glimpse of traditional Spanish agricultural life. 

But in February, devils overrun the town, dancing through the streets for days on end as locals celebrate an age-old tradition.  

This is the “La Endiablada” festival, a local custom that dates back to the 13th century, held to mark the Feast of the Virgin of Candelaria and honour local patron saints.  

Between February 1st and 4th, over 150 ‘devils’ made up of members of the Hermandad de los Diablos (Brotherhood of the Devils) dance through the streets wearing colourful handmade jumpsuits and red pointed ‘mitra’ hats, while beating large copper cowbells strapped to their waists.  

The procession is led by the leader of the brotherhood, the Diablo Mayor (Great Devil), who commands the processions bell-beating with a symbolic staff.   

The ritual may seem strange, but its history is rooted in ancient belief and tradition.  

The purpose of the parade is to scare away ‘evil spirits’, while distracting members of the public to allow the Virgin Mary to enter her presentation at the temple without spectacle following the unique birth of Christ.  

The tradition also marks the Feast of San Blas, a local celebration day which takes place on February 3rd to honour the local patron Saint Blaise. On February 2nd, the Brotherhood of the Devils perform a symbolic ritual where they clean and “wash” the image of the saint to prepare for his feast the following day.  

The tradition is one steeped in local history and community. The Diablo Mayor is a position held by one senior member of the community for life, while membership to the Brotherhood is a great honour reserved only for local men, who will practice for years to be able to join. 

But that doesn’t mean tourists can’t get involved.  

In fact every year, many flock to the otherwise small town to witness the tradition for themselves.  

On February 1st the festival opens at 8pm in a ceremony outside the town hall. Tourists are invited to witness this ceremony, where the mayor offers traditional local treats like rosquillos (donuts), muffins, and zurra (a typical wine punch) to all attendees. 

Then on February 2nd and 3rd the main festival procession of dancing devils can be enjoyed by all, as well as the more subdued danzantas – a group of 10 female dancers who represent harmony and order against the devil’s chaos. It is customary for visitors to “request” specific dances in exchange for a small donation. 

While there are options to stay close by, many tourists interested in the spectacle opt to stay just over an hour by car in the capital of Madrid. This central base offers the chance to combine local tradition and a bustling city break.  

Last minute trips to Madrid cost as little as £188 per person* with First Choice during the period of the festivities. 

“We’re seeing more and more customers opt for unique, cost effective experiences and finding local celebrations that allow you to travel outside that peak time is a great way to hack the system.” Said First Choice Managing Director Kevin Nelson. “It means you’re getting an amazing one-off experience but for a much lower cost.” 

For those looking for a last-minute way to spice up their February, a trip to this small devilish town could be just the thing.