The biggest event in Toledo is undoubtedly Corpus Christi, which has been celebrated for centuries nine weeks after Easter. Presided over by the Archbishop of Toledo, the festival has been declared of International Tourist Interest. The city streets are decorated with awnings, wreaths, lanterns, and antique pennants and tapestries before the enormous procession heads off with a group of giants representing the different continents. They are followed by the enormous crowd that winds through the historic center of town carrying the 500-pound 15th-century gilded monstrance. There are also concerts, shows, and competitions lasting all week long.

For another fun event, catch the local bus to nearby Consuegra, home of the famous row of windmills featured in Cervantes’ Don Quixote. Every October the Saffron Festival highlights the importance of this spice, and shows guests how the colorant is extracted from the flower and how wheat is milled. There are also fun folklore demonstrations. Also, every August medieval battles between the Moors and Christians are re-enacted in the nearby castle.

Another short bus ride away is Mentrida, home to beautiful medieval buildings, excellent wines, and an unusual annual festival that features the San Marcos pilgrimage. Every April villagers dress in white skirts, petticoats, and red bandanas to sing and dance to the orders of Sargentos, who are dressed in medieval costume.