Lleida officially started its Festa Major celebrations on Friday, 8 May 2026, with an evening proclamation by Olympic medallist Saúl Craviotto. The festivities for Sant Anastasi, the city's patron saint, include a drone show and various live music performances across the city.
Preparations for the Festa Major have been underway for several weeks, with various preliminary events leading up to the main celebrations. Today marks the first full day of activities, drawing residents and visitors to central locations.
Afternoon Activities and Cultural Events
The afternoon began at 6pm with a 'correbars' pub crawl, organised by l'Espenta, featuring music and a brass band. This event started at Plaça Sant Joan de Mata and concluded its route at Camps Elisis. Shortly after, at 6.30pm, the Cobla de Tàrrega performed sardanes, a traditional Catalan dance, in Plaça de la Paeria. At 7pm, the Municipal Band held a concert in Plaça Sant Joan.
Beyond musical performances, Boulder Indoor offered a guided introductory session for rock climbing at 7.30pm. This paid activity was recommended for individuals over six years old, providing an alternative cultural experience during the festival.
Evening Proclamation and Night Spectacles
The official Festa Major proclamation took place at 8pm in the Saló de Sessions of the Palau de la Paeria, led by Saúl Craviotto. This ceremony formally marked the start of the city's main festival. During the event, the 'hereus' and 'pubilles', young community representatives of Lleida, were named and presented with their sashes.
Concurrently with the proclamation, live concerts commenced on various stages within Camps Elisis, featuring a range of artists. Later in the evening, at 10pm, two significant events were scheduled. Soul Català, an acoustic duo, performed at the Cafè del Teatre, an event requiring an entrance ticket. Simultaneously, a drone show involving 300 drones launched from the Seu Vella illuminated the night sky. According to the city council, the best viewing spots for this spectacle included Carrer Jaume II, Pont Vell, and the Liceu Escolar footbridge.
Looking ahead, the Festa Major will continue with a full programme of events over the coming days, including more concerts, cultural displays, and community gatherings, reinforcing Lleida's traditions and community spirit.
