This is only my third summer not going home to the U.S., and I still feel that familiar pang in my heart. Even after all these years abroad, summer has a way of bringing up nostalgia, longing, and a need for grounding.
Living in Spain is a gift in many ways—but if you’re a parent here, you’ll know that the summer break is long. With school finishing on June 18th and not starting again until September, it’s a stretch of weeks that can feel both magical and overwhelming.
So how do you keep the kids busy, try to get your work done, stay patient, and somehow still soak in the reminder that you only get 18 summers with them?
That’s motherhood in a nutshell. A constant balancing act of logistics, love, and letting go.
Last week, our kids had no camp, so we decided to lean into family time. We planned a very last-minute trip to Mallorca—and I’m so glad we did. The best part? It’s only a 30-minute flight from Valencia. Just 30 minutes! Compared to our usual 14-hour summer journeys, this felt like a dream.
There are many sides to Mallorca. I had visited once before—single and adventurous. This time was entirely different. This time was about the kids.
We stayed at an all-inclusive resort with everything we needed: activities, kid-friendly pools, and two beautiful coves within walking distance. We spent our days barefoot, sun-soaked, and swimming—just letting the kids feel that beautiful, untamed freedom that summer should bring.
It reminded me of something I love about summer in the U.S.—kids running around outside with no shoes. Living in a city apartment, that’s something my kids rarely get to do. But on this trip, they did. And they loved it.
Now, I feel recharged. Not fully rested (because, you know… kids), but definitely filled with joy.
For those of you spending summer in Spain with children, here’s a little tip: from Valencia (which is just 45 minutes by car from Castellón), there are short, affordable flights to Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca. And ferries too, if you want to venture to the stunning Formentera.
Summer may feel long—but with a little spontaneity, a bit of planning, and a sense of adventure, it’s possible to make it meaningful, even magical.
Here’s to barefoot kids, 30-minute flights, and embracing every one of those 18 summers (as best you can). #lifeinspain #lifeabroad #summer #movingwhere #movingwheremothers #expatlife #americansinspain #parentingabroad #castellon #Castello
Category: Things to do in Spain
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When Summer Feels Long… But You Only Get 18 of Them
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Why Global Mamas Love May in Spain (2025 Version)
According to Spain’s Official Tourism Portal (www.spain.info), May offers 300+ family-focused festivals—more than any European country. Whether you’re already in Spain or dreaming of moving here, these 3 local festivals offer unforgettable ways to enjoy Spanish traditions with your kids:
1. Jerez Horse Fair Andalusia’s Equestrian Heritage 📅May 17–24
The Feria del Caballo de Jerez (Jerez Horse Fair) is one of Andalusia’s most dazzling and aristocratic fairs, blending flamenco, sherry, and equestrian grandeur. Held in Jerez de la Frontera (Cádiz province), it’s a must-see for lovers of Spanish culture.
- UNESCO-Recognized equestrian artistry (Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art)
- Kids’ Day (May 20): Pony rides & flamenco workshops.
- Horse Parades
- The Fairgrounds (Real de la Feria)
- Nighttime Fairground Parties
Pro Tips from Local Moms:
- Rent traditional Traje de Gitana dresses (€15-30/day) at the boutiques on Calle Larga —perfect for matching family photos!
- Public Casetas: Head to Casetas Municipales for open-access fun.
- Horse Events: The Paseo de Caballo (horse parade) happens daily around noon.
- Transport: The fairgrounds (Parque González Hontoria) are a 20-min walk from downtown; taxis are plentiful.
- Dress Code: Locals dress up—join in with a flamenco dress or smart-casual attire.
2. Cruces de Mayo (May Crosses Festival) 📅May 1–3
The festival in Granada is one of Andalusia’s most vibrant spring celebrations, blending religious tradition, floral artistry, and lively street parties. Here’s what makes it special:
- 42 Flower Crosses compete for “Most Creative” award (Judged by botanists & historians)
- Free Craft Stations: Make your own floral cross
- Street Parties & “Casetas”
Pro Tips from Local Moms:
- Best Day to Go: May 3 (Day of the Cross), when all crosses are finished and parties peak.
- Route: Start at Plaza del Carmen (city hall’s giant cross), then explore Albaicín and Realejo.
- Try: Tortilla del Sacromonte (local omelette) and habas con jamón (broad beans with ham) from bars near the crosses.
- Transport: Walk or take minibuses to the Albaicín (narrow streets make parking impossible).
3. Feria de San Isidro, Madrid 📅 May 15-30
The Feria de San Isidro is Madrid’s most iconic traditional festival, celebrating the city’s patron saint, San Isidro Labrador (St. Isidore the Farmer). While the religious feast day is May 15, the festivities—especially the bullfighting season—often extend through late May.
- Bull Fighting at Las Ventas
- Street Parties and Music
- On May 15, locals dress in traditional chulapo attire (men in checked caps, women in polka-dot dresses) and head to the Ermita de San Isidro.
Pro Tip from Local Moms:
- The best day to experience authenticity is May 15, but bullfighting fans should check Las Ventas’ schedule for peak dates.
- For nightlife when you leave the kids with a babysitter, head to La Latina bars after the verbenas.
Thinking of moving to Spain with your family? These festivals are just a taste of the rich, local life waiting for you. Which one would you and your kids love most?
#MovingWhere #MamaCommunity #GlobalMamaLife #FamilyLifeAbroad #CulturalParenting