Andalucia Day - 28 February

Día de Andalucía - Andalucia Day - 28 February

by Fiona Flores-Watson and Catherine Cunningham

Every year on 28 February, the region of Andalusia celebrates Día de Andalucía. Andalusia Day is a public holiday throughout the region, one of several festivos during the year, which celebrates the Andalucia’s status as an autonomous community. 

This special holiday commemorates the referendum on 28 February 1980, in which Andalucians voted for the Statue of Autonomy of Andalucia, to allow them greater self-governance. This important step in the region’s history formed part of the post-dictatorship democratic process, in line with the new Spanish constitution. For the people of Andalucia, this autonomy is a very important and dearly-held part of their identity. 

What happens on Día de Andalucia? 

On Día de Andalucía (Andalusia Day), politicians and officials traditionally pay tribute to Blas Infante by visiting his monument at km 4 on the old Seville - Carmona road, site of his execution at the beginning of the Spanish Civil War. This act serves as a tribute to his legacy and his contributions to Andalusian autonomy and culture.

There are also groups who pay tribute to Blas Infante by visiting his birthplace in Casares, and also at the Casino and Circulo de Artistas in Ronda, where he held the first Andalucian assembly 1918.

For those whose children attend school in Andalucia, if 28 February falls on a Tuesday or Thursday, then the intervening Monday/Friday will be added to form a “puente”, or bank holiday.

On the day before, or the last school day prior to the Andalucia Day holiday, children in primary schools have a traditional Andalucian breakfast of toast with olive oil plus orange juice.

Many towns and villages will have small flag raising ceremonies in the main square in front of the Town Hall on the morning of 28 February. 

Visiting Andalucia on 28 February: What to Expect 

Visiting Andalusia on Día de Andalucía is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's rich pride, culture and traditions. 

Whether you're enjoying a flamenco show in Seville, exploring historic sites in Cordoba, wandering through the beautiful white villages, or indulging in delicious Andalusian cuisine, Día de Andalucía is the perfect time to experience the warmth and vibrancy of this beautiful region.

On Día de Andalucía itself, cities and towns across the region come alive with festive activities. Schools, government buildings, and houses proudly display the green and white Andalusian flag for days or weeks leading up to 28 February.

Tips for travellers

Be aware that most shops – including small family stores, supermarkets, and shopping centres - will be closed on 28 February, and public transport may operate on a limited schedule, so plan your movements accordingly.

Book your accommodation  in advance, as this holiday attracts both locals and visitors to the region.

Some museums and monuments open for free, such as the Museo Picasso and Centre Pompidou in Malaga (for 2025), or hold special visits and events - check schedules in advance.

Join in the festivities – as well as ceremonies, many cities and villages offer free concerts and entertainment, cultural performances, and even communal meals.

In addition, some hotels also hold their own Andalusia Day celebrations.

Traditional Foods to Try 

Andalucian celebrations inevitably involve indulging in gastronomic delicacies, and Día de Andalucía (Day of Andalusia) is no exception.  

If you're travelling through southern Spain during this time, or indeed if you live in the region, you're in for an unforgettable experience filled with music, food, and vibrant traditions. Any Andalucian holiday is a celebration not to be missed, but this specifically regional one is especially heartfelt and proud for its people.

• Churros con chocolate – A sweet treat perfect for starting the day’s celebrations.
• Tapas - There is a small plate scene in Europe currently, but Andalucia was way ahead of the game, with its huge range of tapas, from gourmet to traditional,
• Salmorejo – a creamy, cold tomato soup similar to gazpacho but thicker; from Cordoba.
• Jamón ibérico – The region’s famed cured Iberian ham, often enjoyed with local wines.

 

The history of Andalucia and Blas Infante

Historically, Andalucia has been shaped by many civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors, before the reconquest of Iberia by the Catholic Monarchs  in 1492. 

Later, in the early 20th century, politician, writer and activist Blas Infante (1885–1936) played an important role in defining Andalucia’s identity. Infante is considered the "Father of Andalucian Nationalism", thanks to his advocating for its autonomy, and designing its symbols, including the flag and the Andalucian anthem’s lyrics. 

But Blas Infante’s activities were not considered acceptable by Franco, and he was executed by the dictator’s troops on 11 August 1936, on the old Seville - Carmona road. The final words spoken by this champion for his beloved region were “¡Viva Andalucía libre!" (Long live free Andalusia!).

The influence of Blas Infante on Andalucia during the 20th century’s first tumultuous decades laid the foundation for the region’s recognition as an autonomous community within Spain in 1981, following the referendum the year before. His house, Casa de la Alegría, in Corea del Rio near Seville, now forms part of a museum, Museo de la Autonomía de Andalucia.
While Andalusia as a region has ancient roots, Blas Infante, born in the small village of Casares in Malaga province, is credited with giving Andalucia its modern political and cultural identity.

The green and white flag of Andalucia

The green and white flag of Andalusia is flown throughout the region on this special day, symbolizing hope (green) and peace (white). 

At its centre, the Andalusian emblem features the figure of Hercules standing between two lions and the Pillars of Hercules, which flank the Strait of Gibraltar. Historically, these pillars are believed to be the Rock of Gibraltar and either (there is some dispute here) Monte Hacho in Ceuta or Jebel Musa in Morocco. 

The flag's design was overseen by Blas Infante, as part of his key role in shaping Andalusian identity.

The hymn of Andalucia – The green and white flag

This is sung by schoolchildren on 28 February. Below you can hear Blas Infante’s words sung by Rocio Jurado and beneath the words in Spanish and then English

 

 

La bandera blanca y verde
vuelve, tras siglos de guerra,
a decir paz y esperanza,
bajo el sol de nuestra tierra.

¡Andaluces, levantaos!
¡Pedid tiera y libertad!
¡Sea por Andalucía libre,
España y la Humanidad!

Los andaluces queremos
volver a ser lo que fuimos
hombres de luz, que a los hombres,
alma de hombres les dimos.

 

The Green and White Flag
returns after centuries of war
to tell of peace and hope
under the sun of our land.

Andalucians, Rise up!
Demand land and freedom!
For a free Andalucia,
Spain and humanity!

We, Andalucians, want to become
who we were once again
enlightened folk who gave
a human soul to humanity.

Enjoy the day of Andalucia!

Whether you're driving through the breathtaking landscapes, discovering villages and cities, watching a flamenco performance, or indulging in authentic Andalusian cuisine,  this region of southern Spain has so much to offer. Día de Andalucía is a day to embrace the rich cultural heritage, enjoy delicious food, and take in the lively atmosphere that makes Andalucia so very  special. ¡Feliz Día de Andalucía!