The Origins of Sant Medir Festival
The Sant Medir Festival dates back to 1830 when a local baker named Josep Vidal i Granés vowed to honor Saint Medir, the patron saint of farmers, if he recovered from an illness. He promised to make a pilgrimage to the hermitage of Sant Medir in the Collserola hills. True to his word, after recovering, he made the pilgrimage on horseback, and over the years, he invited friends and neighbors to join him. This tradition grew into the lively festival that we see today.
Festival Highlights
The Parade of Candies
The most anticipated part of the Sant Medir Festival is the parade, where participants on horseback, carriages, and floats travel through the streets of Gràcia, tossing thousands of candies to the cheering crowds. The sight of colorful sweets raining down from the sky is a delight for both children and adults. Local groups, known as "colles," organize the parade, each vying to throw the most and best candies.
The Pilgrimage to the Hermitage
True to the festival’s origins, the day begins with a pilgrimage to the hermitage of Sant Medir. Participants, including the colles, ride from Gràcia to the hermitage located in the Collserola Natural Park. This pilgrimage is a time-honored tradition that connects the festival to its religious roots and provides a moment of reflection before the festivities kick off in full swing.
Community Feasts
No festival in Barcelona is complete without delicious food, and Sant Medir is no exception. Local eateries and street vendors offer a variety of traditional Catalan dishes and sweets. The community feasts are a great way to sample the local cuisine and enjoy the festive spirit with friends and neighbors.
Tips for Enjoying Sant Medir Festival
- Arrive Early: To secure a good spot along the parade route, it’s best to arrive early. The streets can get quite crowded as people gather to catch the candies.
- Bring a Bag: With so many candies being thrown, you’ll want to bring a bag to collect your sweet haul.
- Stay Safe: Keep an eye on young children during the parade, as the crowds and flying candies can be overwhelming.
- Explore Gràcia: Take some time to explore the neighborhood of Gràcia. Known for its bohemian vibe, it’s filled with charming streets, unique shops, and cozy cafes.
- Participate in the Pilgrimage: If you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider joining the pilgrimage to the hermitage. It’s a beautiful walk and a meaningful way to connect with the festival’s roots.
Conclusion
The Sant Medir Festival is a truly unique and delightful event that showcases the vibrant culture and community spirit of Barcelona. From the colorful candy-filled parades to the traditional pilgrimage and lively music, it’s a festival that brings joy to all who participate. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, experiencing the Sant Medir Festival is a sweet way to celebrate Barcelona’s rich traditions and sense of community. Mark your calendars for this one-of-a-kind festival and get ready to catch some candies!
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