Santa Tecla celebrates 600 years of fire with 513 events and historic correfocs in Tarragona
The Santa Tecla festivals of Tarragona commemorate 600 years of an unbreakable bond with fire, with a program that includes 513 cultural, popular, and musical events from September 15 to 24. This element, documented as far back as the 15th century, remains the undisputed protagonist.
This edition is presented with special correfocs, old-style parades, and fireworks from past eras, offering a unique experience to the residents and visitors of Tarragona.
The special events that return to the origins of fire at Santa Tecla
What makes the 600 years of fire commemoration unique?
What makes this anniversary special is the revival of shows and traditions dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, such as the old-style parade with traditional costumes and ancient fireworks. This directly connects with the festival’s historical origins and adds a heritage value difficult to find in other celebrations.
How do local entities participate in this celebration?
Emblematic groups like the Ball de Diables, the Drac de Sant Roc, the Vibrieta, and the Ball d'en Serrallonga lead these special activities. For example, the Ball de Diables will perform a procession without the usual characters like Lucifer, recreating the atmosphere of 19th-century outings. There will also be an old-style parade by the Drac de Sant Roc, with music from the Cobla Mitja Lluna, and children’s fire beast meetings featuring figures from various regions.
The musical program that keeps tradition alive and breaks molds
What role do bands and traditional music play at Santa Tecla?
Traditional music and bands are considered the headliners of Santa Tecla, according to Xavier González, head of Culture and Festivals. The traditional band battle and the BUMT concerts at Camp de Mart are highlights, featuring participation from two bands from Carlet, a Valencian municipality with a strong musical tradition and two groups that rarely collaborate.
What artists and concerts have been scheduled this year?
Parc del Francolí hosts well-known artists from the Catalan scene such as Buhos, Svetlana, Fades, and DJ Trapella. This musical offering complements the traditional program and will attract a diverse audience, combining pop music with the festival’s most authentic roots.
Controversies and changes in the usual Santa Tecla program
Why do the Barraques disappear after 20 years?
The Barraques, which for two decades have been held at Passeig de les Palmeres by left-wing independentist groups, are not part of this year’s program. The controversy surrounding the venue and the promoters' refusal to accept alternatives have motivated this change, replacing them with an Entities Fair at the same location, featuring circus shows and music.
How has the administration responded to this controversy?
The Culture Councilor, Sandra Ramos, regrets that no agreement was reached to keep the Barraques in another space and highlights the effort to offer central and accessible spaces for cultural activities. The Entities Fair aims to be an alternative that brings together various proposals and restores the centrality of Passeig de les Palmeres.
Source of the article: Eloi Tost / Catalan News Agency
