LES SANTES, FIESTA MAYOR DE MATARÓ
The Festa Major de Mataró, known as Les Santes, is one of the most iconic celebrations in Catalonia, taking place from July 24th to 29th in honor of the city's patron saints, Santa Juliana and Santa Semproniana. With a tradition dating back to the first half of the 19th century, Les Santes is a unique and unrepeatable event in Mataró, enveloping the city in music, dance, and tradition.
What makes Les Santes so special?
The answer lies in its combination of unique factors: the rich history behind it, the dynamism of its citizens, and its continuous innovation. The festival has remained vibrant thanks to the great involvement of the people of Mataró, with active participation from groups, schools, community organizations, and circles of friends who live the celebration intensely.
Les Santes incorporates a rich blend of tradition and modernity. Traditional events such as the Ofici, the Missa de Glòria, the Focs, and the Passada de gegants (giant parade) have endured through the centuries, while others were consolidated following the democratic recovery in 1979. This fusion of past and present has made Les Santes one of the most important festivals in our popular culture, recognized as a National Heritage Festival and included in the Catalonia Festive Heritage Catalogue.