Cervantes Market in Alcalá de Henares; A journey through history

From October 8 to 13, the Cervantes Market returns for a new edition. This is Europe’s largest themed event, featuring more than 300 stalls, street performances, historical reenactments, medieval tournaments, Celtic music, and plenty of activities.

Alcalá de Henares, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, will take visitors back to the Spanish Golden Age from Tuesday, October 8 to Sunday, October 13. The city’s traditional Cervantes Market, the most significant themed event in Europe, will this year transport visitors into the mind of Spain’s literary genius, Miguel de Cervantes. Strolling through the historic center of Alcalá, visitors will feel like they’ve stepped into the life of a courtier from the Golden Age. Inside the city’s old walls, attendees can enjoy an authentic recreation of a camp from the legendary Spanish infantry regiment, "Tercio Viejo," and, even better, an exciting medieval combat tournament. Get ready for a thrilling journey back in time!

For a few days, the historic center of Alcalá de Henares (Madrid, Spain) will become a time machine, where carpenters, barrel makers, tanners, tavern owners, knights, ladies, musicians, and dancers will transport to one of the most celebrated periods in Spanish history: the Golden Age. It was here that Spain’s most famous writer brought to life a world filled with knights-errant, giants, heroic deeds... and plenty of satire.

With more than 300 stalls and hundreds of daily performances scattered across the city’s squares and streets, visitors can leave the present behind for a while and immerse themselves in the life and customs of 400 years ago. This new edition of the Cervantes Market brings to life the magic and vibrancy of a city steeped in mystery—something only found in a select few places in Spain.

One of the main highlights will be the Jousting Tournaments held in the Huerta del Palacio Arzobispal. These thrilling displays of skill are packed with adrenaline. "The Barataria Jousts," inspired by the imagination of Miguel de Cervantes, will deliver high doses of excitement with every spectacle.

For those "hungry for history," there will be the chance to experience what life was like in one of the most powerful military units of all time. The Tercio Viejo infantry ruled the battlefield for more than a century and a half. The Tercio Camp is a rare opportunity to witness historical reenactments, parades, and demonstrations that will leave both adults and children amazed.

Market stalls, handcrafted goods, historical reenactments, live music, and countless parades will make attendees question whether they’re still in the year 2024. Alcalá de Henares’ Cervantes Week, recognized as a National Tourist Interest, is one of the year’s most important events, with an influence that has spread beyond Spain, making the Cervantes Market the most significant themed event in Europe.