Discover the Sant Jaume festivities in Catalonia!

The Sant Jaume festivities, celebrated on July 25, have a long tradition in Catalonia and are especially important in several towns and cities that celebrate this saint as their patron saint. The festival, which coincides with the height of summer, provides an opportunity for local communities to gather, pay homage to their patron saint, and celebrate Catalan folk culture with joy and enthusiasm.

Saint James, also known as James the Greater, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and, according to Christian tradition, preached the gospel in the Iberian Peninsula. He was later martyred in Jerusalem and, according to legend, his body was miraculously transported to Galicia, where his tomb is now located in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. The tomb became one of the most important centers of pilgrimage in the Christian world during the Middle Ages.

Devotion to Sant Jaume spread throughout the territory, and took root strongly in Catalonia, especially during the Middle Ages and the period of reconquest, since Sant Jaume was considered a protector of Christians.

Today, the festival combines religious aspects with a wide variety of recreational and cultural activities. Celebrations often begin with liturgical events, such as a mass in honor of the saint and, in some cases, processions through the streets of the municipality. However, the festival has become a living expression of Catalan popular culture.

There's no shortage of fire runs with devils and festive bestiaries, parades with giants and big-headed figures, sardanas, human towers, and other expressions of local folklore. In addition, concerts, evening dances, children's activities, and communal meals contribute to creating a festive atmosphere and fellowship among the residents.

Discover them!