El Vendrell Officially Begins Its Term as 2026 Sardana Capital

The town receives the flag from Olot in a ceremony celebrating traditional Catalan dance and music.

Generic image of a traditional Sardana dance in a public square during a cultural celebration.
IA

Generic image of a traditional Sardana dance in a public square during a cultural celebration.

The town of El Vendrell has officially launched its residency as the 2026 Capital of the Sardana. The inaugural event featured the traditional flag handover and tributes to the town's rich musical heritage.

On Saturday, March 21, the festivities began with Pau Casals' Sant Martí del Canigó, performed by local music students. The Olot City Council formally passed the capital's flag to El Vendrell City Council, marking the start of a year dedicated to the traditional Catalan dance.
The event featured the premiere of new compositions by Anna Abad and Helena Cullaré, alongside a proclamation by Pep Antoni Roig. A commemorative piece by artist Cecilio Cirbian was also unveiled to honor the local sardanista community in the Baix Penedès region.