The Gothic Quarter of Barcelona will host the 437th edition of the Sant Roc Festivities from Wednesday, August 12th to Sunday, August 16th. This is the city's oldest celebration, designated as a Heritage Festival of National Interest. This year, the festival coincides with the anticipation of the solar eclipse on August 12th and takes place in Plaça Nova, in front of the Barcelona Cathedral.
The program combines centuries-old traditions with novelties designed for all ages. Among the most emblematic elements are the traditional Cucanya game, the Porró Llarg, and Panellets, an essential typical sweet since 1869. This year, as a measure against the heat, shaded areas and water will be available in Plaça Nova during peak solar radiation hours.
One of the notable novelties is the celebration of the 120th anniversary of the centennial giants of Sant Roc, Laieta and Roc, who will present a completely renewed image after an intensive study and restoration process. Additionally, the Associació de Festes de la Plaça Nova will honor the women who have been historically invisible despite being the heart of the festivities.
The program includes activities such as craft fairs, children's and traditional parades, popular dinners, habaneras concerts, traditional games, the 'Festa del Gos' (Dog Festival), sardana dances, giant parades, the Traditional Seguici of Sant Roc, the Eagle Dance of the City, the 'Cant dels Goigs' to Sant Roc, floral offerings, esbart dance performances, and a correfoc (fire run).
“"We must adapt to the heat and offer shaded areas and water for everyone."
Key events include the 'Crida a la Festa' (Call to the Festival) on Wednesday the 12th, the official inauguration of the festivities on Thursday the 13th with the presentation of the restored giants, the 'Festa del Gos' on Friday the 14th, the Giants' Gathering and Dance on Saturday the 15th, and the Traditional Seguici and correfoc on Sunday the 16th, culminating in a fireworks display.
