Since its first edition in 1988, Gijón’s Black Week has grown from a small literary gathering focused on crime fiction into one of the most popular and unique cultural festivals in Europe. Today, during the first half of July, it attracts over one million visitors every year over 11 intense days filled with literature, music, critical thinking, and culture for all audiences.

Born with a rebellious and creative spirit, Black Week has successfully blended the presence of major literary figures — not only in crime fiction, but also in fantasy, historical fiction, science fiction, and poetry — with concerts, talks, exhibitions, and a unique atmosphere that transforms Gijón into a city open to art and the spoken word.

Throughout its history, the festival has hosted figures such as Willie Colón, Los Lobos, Mano Negra, Georges Moustaki, Ángel González, Juan Gelman, Luis García Montero, and Joaquín Sabina, among many others. A crossroads where narrative meets music, poetry is heard under the stars, and ideas are shared without haste.

In recognition of its trajectory and cultural value, the festival has received major distinctions such as the Gold Medal for Merit in the Fine Arts (2022) and the Gold Medal of the City of Gijón (2023).

Black Week is not just a festival: it is a collective experience, a tribute to the written word, and a celebration where culture is lived out on the streets.