This ancient tradition dates back to the 15th century, when the population of Tossa de Mar was being decimated by the Black Death. The municipality promised Saint Sebastian that, if the outbreak stopped, they would make an annual pilgrimage to the nearest chapel, which was that of Santa Coloma de Farners.

The ritual begins on Tuesday, January 20, at 7 in the morning with the Missa d’El Cantar (The Singing Mass), where the identity of the Pare Pelegrí is revealed. Afterwards, a procession takes place to the hermitage of the Mare de Déu dels Socors in Tossa, where the image of Saint Sebastian is left.

From this point, the Pare Pelegrí and his companions embark on the 40-kilometer journey. In the evening, they will be received in the capital of the Selva region, Santa Coloma de Farners, by local authorities, who certify the fulfillment of the vow. The following day, the return journey to Tossa is undertaken.