Lleida’s Aplec del Caragol has opened at Camps Elisis with a record 16,850 participants across 124 groups. The three-day festival centres on snails and brings together members from across Catalonia and beyond.
The opening included the traditional gathering of groups and banners, followed by the ninth edition of Lo Caragolasso. Xavier Bertran, known as lo Caratanyà, took part, and the Trenca-Clasques group was named Honour Group 2026.
Ferran Perdrix, president of FECOLL, the organising body, said people are very keen on the Aplec and that the conditions are in place for this to be the best edition in history. The festival also aims to strengthen its programme and raise its international profile, with the goal of becoming a Festival of International Tourist Interest.
This year’s event includes a new marquee space for up to 600 people, with tastings and rest areas decorated in the style of the participating groups. The gastronomic area also includes the new Gust de Lleida restaurant, which is intended to promote local agri-food products from the region.
Security and crowd control remain a focus. FECOLL is continuing the bracelet system for group members, first used in 2025, after what organisers described as positive results for safety and coexistence. General admission remains free, although security checks will be in place during night-time hours.
Sergi, from the Sogall group, described the Aplec del Caragol as a very inclusive festival for people who want to have a good time. Víctor, from Els Penjats, said the event is also about reunion, with group members meeting people they have not seen in a year.
