⛸️ The Tapa Weekend: December 13
Ice skating, Christmas markets and some opera, because why not.
By @IanMount and @AdrianBono | December 13, 2024 | Madrid | Issue #79
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Here Are 5 Things to Do in Madrid This Weekend
It’s Friday again!
Winter's icy, lethargic hand has arrived (a week before winter actually starts) to remind us of our humanity. Those of us who have experienced the dewey, sweet joy of spending the holidays in the southern hemisphere usually become nostalgic for a time when all you needed to put on for your Christmas shopping was a tank top.
In the meantime, all we can do to feel better is spend money (that we don’t have) and buy tons of Christmas presents. We'll deal with our credit card debt in 2025.
Enjoy!
1. ⛸️ Ice Skating Rinks Galore!
Sure, Madrid hardly ever gets snow. But that doesn’t mean we don’t get ice!
Every year Madrid transforms into a winter wonderland with rinks all over the city, offering the fun and/or terrifying experience of ice skating. So dust off your ice skates (actually, who has ice skates?)—it’s time to embrace the festive spirit.
Make sure you try:
Many of these offer pretty affordable prices. There are also skate rentals available and, if you have children, there are special sessions for them as well.
Ice Skating Rinks in Madrid. Multiple locations around the city. Check websites above for opening hours, location and prices.
2. 🎭 Some Opera: Maria Stuarda
This is your week’s high-brow choice (because we always must have one).
Scottish director David McVicar, known for his work on Rigoletto, Don Carlo, and Gloriana, brings to the Teatro Real the second part of Gaetano Donizetti’s Tudor Queen trilogy: Anna Bolena (1830), Maria Stuarda (1835), and Roberto Devereux (1837).
This opera transports you to the fascinating historical backdrop of the 16th century, a turbulent era in which two queens,
stand before usMary Stuart of Scotland and Elizabeth I of England, clash in a battleto impress us and save themselves from eliminationfor power, love, and survival.OK, enough with the Drag Race jokes. Beyond the political conflict, this opera delves into a gripping love triangle (ooooohhhhh!) as both queens are into the dashing Earl of Leicester, who finds himself torn between loyalty to Elizabeth I and his infatuation with the captive Mary. The drama!
The opera explores themes such as freedom, pride, and determination as Mary tries to reclaim the throne that was taken from her. She’s like just Daenerys Targaryen! Without the dragons. And the crazy.
Maria Stuarda. Teatro Real. Plaza de Isabel II S/N, Madrid. Through Dec. 30. Check website for schedule. Tickets start at €18.
3. 🎭 A Play: Beyond The Little Prince
Back when you were a child, you probably read The Little Prince (not you, Gen Z). This novella, originally published in 1943 by aviator and writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, seemed to be a children’s story but it carries some deep reflections on life, human nature, and what really matters in life.
Beyond the Little Prince is a unique adaption of the novel, focusing not only on the story of The Little Prince but also on the life of the author and the fundamental values that are expressed in the book.
The play stars Rafa Rojas and features violinist Esther Muñoz, whose music emphasizes the importance of preserving the essence of childhood. Through the metaphor of the little prince, audiences get to reflect on what they may have left behind as they grew up, reminding them how wonder, curiosity, and self-connection often fade in adulthood.
It sounds depressing, but in fact, it’s a good opportunity for introspection and putting your phone down.
Beyond the Little Prince. Centro Cultural de la Villa, Paseo de Colón 4, Madrid. Through Jan. 12. Check website for schedule. Tickets: €18
4.🎅🏻 St. George’s Church Christmas Fair
Need some cool Christmas presents? Join the holiday season in style at the St. George’s Church Christmas Fair, a joyful opportunity to gather with friends and family while enjoying everything that makes Christmas magical.
From unique gifts to festive treats, this fair has it all. There will be stands with handcrafted gifts, a tombola and a raffle, with some really cool prizes.
“Will there be food?” you ask. The answer is yes. As in food and drinks, including turkey rolls, mulled wine, and a variety of classic Christmas sweets. It’s the perfect way to
drinkimmerse yourself in the spirit of the season.
This event is family-friendly and accessible, so don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a day filled with festive cheer, delicious food, and community spirit.
St. George’s Church Christmas Fair. St. George’s Church. Núñez de Balboa 43, Madrid. Dec. 14, 11 a.m.—8 p.m. Tickets: €2.
5. 🐸 Mercado de las Ranas street market
The Mercado de las Ranas is back this Saturday so if you’re wondering where to spend your cheap Christmas presents, this is the place.
This street market is similar to the Portobello Road or Candem Town markets in London. This Saturday, stores participating in this mercado in Plaza Santa Ana, in the Las Letras district, bring their goods outside into the street so visitors can buy their favorite book, t-shirt or grab a slice of pizza on the go.
If there’s one thing we love about Madrid (and there are actually many), it’s the street market scene, and this one doesn’t disappoint. After a bit of retail therapy, grab a table at the plaza and sip a cool caña. You’re welcome.
Mercado de las Ranas. All along Calle de las Huertas in Las Letras, Madrid. Saturday, Dec. 14 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
👨🏻💻 Viral Stories of the Week
🎅 Galicia’s Christmas obsession isn’t just about the lights
🦊 And while we’re talking about Galicia…a cute fox!
🐦 While we’re talking about animals, this seagull…
🐶 Fine, you got us, we like animals this week…
🔔 A Message From Our Sponsor
Secret Kingdoms is your English bookstore in Madrid. It specializes in Spanish history and literature, contemporary and classic novels, books for children and young adults of all ages, history and historical fiction, thrillers, science fiction, fantasy, poetry, biographies and much more.
Located on Calle de Moratín 7 — a few blocks away from the Prado Museum — and with over 20,000 new and used books, Secret Kingdoms has something for everyone.
Find out more at www.thesecretkingdoms.com
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