Festivals in La Bisbal d'Empordà
Discover the main festivals of La Bisbal d'Empordà, where the old town, ceramics and historic festival figures shape local popular culture.
Local festivals in La Bisbal d'Empordà
The Festa Major is usually celebrated for five days, from 14 to 18 August. The opening address and ceremonial breaking of the pottery jug begin a sequence of bell ringing, parades, dances, concerts, sardanes, a fire run and family activities in Plaça de l'Ajuntament, Plaça Major, Plaça del Castell, Terracotta Museu and the old-town streets. The Town Council and local associations, including Geganters, Els Dracs, Amics de l'Àliga, music groups and the parish, share the organisation.
Historic procession and festival figures
The Àliga, Drac, Perses, Fesolers, giants and big-head figures lead the festival routes and ritual dances. The Àliga, first presented in 1619, and the Drac form part of Catalonia's protected festival heritage. The procession to solemn mass, the descent of the Àliga, the giants' dance and the fire run bring popular-culture groups, musicians, the parish, families and visitors together in the squares and streets.
Other celebrations: Aplec del Remei and fairs
In October, Aplec del Remei brings residents to the chapel for mass, sardanes and a community meal. On the first day of May, Fira Mercat al Carrer fills the streets with commerce, crafts and a festive atmosphere. Neighbourhood festivities, the Three Kings parade and activities linked to the town's ceramic tradition broaden the calendar with the involvement of associations, traders and cultural venues.