Festivals, museums, and artistic premieres make Madrid the capital of culture in 2025

2025 in Madrid will be a year packed full of cultural proposals that promise to consolidate its position as one of the most dynamic artistic epicenters of Europe. With new museum openings, spaces dedicated to dance, and a first-class program of festivals, the Spanish capital will offer something for everyone.

Unmissable art and exhibitions

In El Capricho Park, the Palace of the Dukes of Osuna is scheduled to open as a museum following a complete renovation, allowing visitors to discover the history of the city from the 18th century onwards and the figure of the Duchess of Osuna. The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum will host the exhibition Proust and the Arts and, later in the year, an exhibition of works by artists who explored new spatial strategies in the 20th century, such as Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock. On the other hand, the CentroCentro Cultural Center will pay tribute to Antonio Palacios, architect of some of the city's most emblematic buildings, while CaixaForum will present The Worlds of Alice, exploring Lewis Carroll’s universe.

Matadero Madrid has become an art center hosting presentations, exhibitions, workshops, performances, shows, and much more © Shutterstock

Dance comes to join the city’s cultural pulse

Matadero Madrid has consolidated itself as an artistic leader with the recent inauguration of the Matadero Madrid Dance Center. Under the direction of María Pagés, the space will offer 66 shows throughout the year, with national and international companies and more than 600 artists on stage.

Festivals and live music

Madrid will host some major music events in 2025. Mad Cool Festival will bring together artists such as Olivia Rodrigo, Kings of Leon, and Thirty Seconds to Mars. At the Movistar Arena, Maluma and Dua Lipa will welcome fans to their new tours, while Iron Maiden will celebrate their 50th anniversary with a concert at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium. With an unparalleled cultural offering, Madrid confirms itself as an essential destination for lovers of art, dance, and live music.