Today is Día del Padre in Spain — and they celebrate it in style!

When I was a child growing up in the Netherlands, Father’s Day was a cozy Sunday in June. Breakfast in bed, a handmade craft, and maybe a bottle of aftershave he’d never use. It wasn’t until I lived in Spain that I discovered Día del Padre is celebrated here on 19 March, on the feast day of San José (Saint Joseph) — the father figure of Jesus and the Catholic symbol of fatherhood.

In many places in Spain, it’s an important day, but in Valencia and the surrounding regions, it takes on an extra festive touch. This is all due to Las Fallas, the famous fire festival that reaches its peak during these days. Fireworks, bonfires, and parties that last deep into the night — it feels like the whole of Valencia is celebrating Father’s Day!

My Spanish Father’s Day experience

The first time I experienced Día del Padre in Spain, I didn’t immediately understand why it was such a big deal. In Valencia, the whole city was turned upside down, and as I walked along the boulevard, I saw families gathering at terraces everywhere. There was laughter, toasts, and food, as if it were Christmas.

“It’s San José,” a friend told me. “So all the José’s and Pepe’s are celebrated today. And in Valencia, it’s the last day of Las Fallas — tonight, everything goes up in flames.”

And indeed, as the sun set, huge statues were ready to be burned during La Cremà, the grand finale of Las Fallas. As fathers carried their children on their shoulders, Valencia transformed into a sea of fire and applause.

How Father’s Day is celebrated in Spain

Although fireworks aren’t part of Día del Padre celebrations everywhere in Spain, it is still a day focused on family. Many children surprise their fathers with a small gift — from drawings to a good bottle of wine — and a big lunch is often enjoyed together. In some regions, it’s even an official holiday, meaning many Spaniards get the day off.

But perhaps the most beautiful thing I saw was the appreciation. While Father’s Day in the Netherlands sometimes feels like a commercial afterthought, here, it’s a true moment to honour fatherhood. Not with big gifts, but with time spent together.

Which dad song’ would you like to hear on Costa Blanca Radio?

Because at Costa Blanca Radio, we love a good celebration, we’re putting all the dads in the spotlight! Tonight, between 18:00 and 19:00, our radio colleagues on Costa Request will be playing the best PapaPlaten — from nostalgic sing-alongs to the ultimate musical tributes to ‘your old man’.

Would you like to request a song for your dad? Let us know via Costa Blanca Radio’s Facebook and Instagram, or send an email to studio@costablancaradio.nl. (Or use the contact form at the bottom of this page.)

Feliz Día del Padre! 🎶