Festa Major Sant Martirià en Bañolas

Introduction and local significance

The Festa Major Sant Martirià in Banyoles is the patron saint festival of the Girona municipality of Banyoles. This year's official edition runs from 22 October to 1 November 2026. This festival is the most important date on the local calendar, integrating various events that include music, performing arts, and popular culture activities organised by different local entities.

Historical origins and tradition

The festival honours the figure of Sant Martirià and has a history in which local culture plays a leading role. During the festive days, various civic groups participate in the programme, strengthening the town's identity. Among the activities that highlight local traditions, the presence of the Esperxats de l'Estany, a casteller group (human tower builders) that organises open-air rehearsals, stands out. During these sessions, it is possible to observe the technique needed to raise the castells (human towers) and pilars (pillars), a practice that requires precise coordination among the participants.

Programme and main events

The programme of the Festa Major Sant Martirià in Banyoles offers a variety of cultural proposals for the public. Among the central events that structure the calendar are theatrical performances, such as the Nit de Ràdio 2.0 show held at the Teatre Municipal, and cycles dedicated to live music. The Recinte de Barraques is established as the main space where concerts take place, featuring the participation of various artists.

In addition to these events, the agenda includes activities carried out in different locations around the municipality, covering disciplines such as cobla music (traditional Catalan wind band music) or dance performances. Festival planning may vary according to the organisation's needs and the technical requirements of each event. It is necessary to consult the official programme provided by the Banyoles Town Council for details on times and locations, as events may undergo changes during the course of the festival days.

Traditional festival food

The gastronomy present in Banyoles during the festive dates follows the general lines of the region's traditional cuisine. Local catering establishments offer menus that reflect the area's culinary style, adapting to the availability of seasonal products. To find out about available options or specific recipes prepared for Sant Martirià, it is advisable to check directly with the local restaurants, as there is no single list of dishes exclusively linked to the festival in the current context.

Visitor guide and where to stay

To facilitate access to the events, it is recommended to plan your travel in advance. On days with higher attendance, it is preferable to opt for public transport or look for parking outside the urban centre of Banyoles, thus avoiding possible restrictions or traffic complications.

Regarding accommodation, it is highly advisable to make bookings well in advance, as the availability of rooms may decrease during the festival period. Staying in the municipality itself or in nearby towns makes it easier to follow the scheduled events, especially those taking place at night. Before making the trip, it is recommended to check the official channels of the Banyoles Town Council for updated information on any relevant notices for visitors, activity schedules, and possible changes in access logistics.