Music for the sardane is played by a cobla, a wind band with double bass consisting of 12 instruments played by 11 musicians. Four of these instruments (tenora, tible, flabiol and tamborí) are typical Catalan instruments along with the more traditional trumpet, trombone, fiscorn and double bass. The makeup of a cobla never varies.
In the sumptuous surroundings of the Chateau de Jau and its former silk-factory turned exhibition space, Nicolas Cussac’s art has found a home for the summer.
La Fête du Travailleur Catalan is a family-friendly festival that has taken place every year since 1937!
The first midsummer fire on Canigou in modern times was lit on 23 June 1955 by Francois Poujade and fellow USAP rugby fanatics – both to celebrate his birthday and Perpignan’s victory over FC Lourdes in the Yves du Manoir Challenge cup.
No event in the Catalan calendar is more important than Els Focs de la Sant Jean or The Fires of St John, held on the region’s sacred mountain, Canigou, and in towns and villages right across Catalonia.
The difference between ‘fanfares’ and ‘bandas’.
Taking place on or around 23rd April each year, the festival of Sant Jordi celebrates the Patron saint of Catalonia, French equivalent of St George.
The Easter Omelette, or ‘Omelette Pascale is more than just a recipe in Catalonia – it’s a whole tradition!
A tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages, the “goigs dels ous” (or “joie des oeufs” in French) are traditional Easter songs; ancient hymns sung by choirs in traditional Catalan costume, signaling a return…
Once upon a time, rival bands of young people released their pent up energy by competing against each other in feats of strength and agility.
No guns, no knives.
