Festivals and traditions of Empordà you can’t miss
Empordà is a region with a strong cultural identity, where traditions and festivities play an essential role in the lives of its inhabitants. From ancient celebrations to colorful popular festivals, every corner of Empordà offers unique experiences that reflect its history and Mediterranean character. If you visit this region, here are some of the festivals and traditions you can’t miss.
1. La Cantada de Habaneras in Calella de Palafrugell
Every first Saturday of July, the picturesque village of Calella de Palafrugell fills with music during the traditional Cantada de Habaneras. This event brings together thousands of people on the beach to enjoy this musical genre of Cuban origin, which arrived in Catalonia in the 19th century through sailors. Songs like El meu avi and La bella Lola resonate as the audience joins in with the classic rom cremat, a hot drink made with rum, sugar, and spices.
2. Processó de Verges
One of the most impactful events in Empordà is the Processó de Verges, celebrated every Holy Thursday in the village of Verges. It’s a medieval representation of the Passion of Christ that culminates with the famous Dansa de la Mort, a procession of skeletons symbolizing the fleetingness of life. This unique tradition, with origins in the Middle Ages, turns the streets of Verges into a living stage of history and devotion.
3.- Castell de Peralada Festival
For music and culture lovers, the Castell de Peralada Festival is an unmissable event. Held in the summer months at the imposing medieval castle of Peralada, this festival brings together great artists of opera, classical music, dance, and jazz. Its international prestige makes it a top-tier cultural event, with an elegant and unique atmosphere.
4. La Garoinada in Palafrugell
Winter in Empordà has its own gastronomic tradition: La Garoinada. During January, February, and March, various restaurants in Palafrugell offer special menus with garoines (sea urchins), accompanied by toasted bread and white wine. This tradition allows you to taste one of the most prized products of the sea at its best time of the year, making it a must for gastronomy lovers.
5. Fira de Sant Narcís in Girona
Although Girona is not part of Empordà, the Fira de Sant Narcís is one of the most important fairs in the region and attracts visitors from all over Catalonia. Held at the end of October in honor of Sant Narcís, the patron saint of the city, it features an extensive program of activities: concerts, craft markets, gastronomic fairs, and the traditional correfocs (fire runs with devils and firecrackers). It’s also famous for its amusement park and human tower exhibitions.
6.- Fira dels Indians, Begur
Begur, a village with strong ties to Cuba due to its Indiano past, celebrates the Fira dels Indians every September, commemorating the history of Catalan emigrants who made fortunes in America and returned with their wealth and culture. During the fair, the streets of Begur fill with Cuban music, colonial product markets, and tastings of mojitos and rom cremat, transporting visitors to the colonial era.
7. Terra de Trobadors Festival in Castelló d'Empúries
In September, Castelló d'Empúries transforms into a medieval village during the Terra de Trobadors Festival. For a weekend, the streets of the old town fill with knight tournaments, medieval markets, theatrical performances, and troubadour music. It’s a perfect festival to immerse yourself in the history of Empordà and enjoy a unique atmosphere.
8. Festa de la Sal in L'Escala
L'Escala pays homage to its fishing past with the Festa de la Sal, celebrated in September. During this event, ancient fishing and fish salting techniques are recreated, a key tradition in the local economy. Visitors can participate in anchovy salting demonstrations, tastings, and sailor dance performances.
9. Els Tres Tombs festival in Torroella de Montgrí
In honor of Sant Antoni Abat, the patron saint of animals, Torroella de Montgrí celebrates the Els Tres Tombs festival in January. During this festivity, riders and carriages parade through the village streets in a procession where animals are blessed. It’s a deeply rooted tradition in Catalan rural culture and an opportunity to see horses and vintage carriages in a festive atmosphere.
10. Fiesta Mayor, Peratallada
Peratallada, one of the most beautiful villages in Empordà, celebrates its Fiesta Mayor in August with traditional activities like folk dances, gastronomic contests, and live music performances. The medieval charm of the village, combined with the festive atmosphere, makes it a unique experience for those looking to live local traditions in a picturesque setting.
Live the traditions of Empordà from Encís d'Empordà
Enjoying the festivals and traditions of Empordà is a wonderful way to connect with its culture and people. If you want to live these experiences in an authentic setting, Encís d'Empordà is the ideal place to stay.
Located in a historic farmhouse, our boutique hotel allows you to discover local festivities while enjoying the tranquility and charm of Empordà.
Book your stay at Encís d'Empordà and immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of this unique land.