New Model Proposed for El Prat's Festa Major: Increased Citizen Participation

Gerard Valverde i Polo's opinion piece advocates for a shift towards an organization and programming decided by the citizenry, not by technicians or political parties.

Generic image of a local festival in Catalunya with people enjoying music and tradition.
IA

Generic image of a local festival in Catalunya with people enjoying music and tradition.

An opinion piece signed by Gerard Valverde i Polo proposes a new model for El Prat's Festa Major, advocating for greater citizen participation in its organization and programming.

The article, published in the opinion section of the El Prat de Llobregat City Council, argues that the Festa Major, as an expression of civic pride, popular culture, tradition, music, and identity, can be improved in its current model.
The author criticizes that the programming, especially the selection of musical groups, is often decided in offices, and insists on the need to move towards a model where the city is the true decision-maker. This would involve transferring voice, decision-making, and resources to those who truly sustain the festival year after year.
The opening of concert selection to participatory criteria is defended, moving it away from the decision of a technician or a political party. Although the current festival protocol is a good start, it is considered that it should not just be a piece of paper but should involve resources and, above all, transfer management to the true architects of the festival.
The article expresses the desire for a model with true administrators elected annually, with responsibility and the honor of defining the Festa Major. Only by making those who participate co-responsible can a festival that fully connects with the city be achieved.
Based on information from the official source: Ajuntament del Prat de Llobregat (18/09/2026)