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WHERE: Tarragona, Spain
WHEN: 03 – 13 February, 20 June, 23 September 2024
Tarragona Diables, also known as the Dance of the Devils, is one of the most interesting and spectacular folkloristic representations in all of Spain. And, in this sense, it represents one of the greatest expressions of the local tradition.
An ancient festival, whose origins date back as far as the fifteenth century, revisited in the 1984 through an annual cycle of three specific dates. Each, linked to particular historical phases, from the Carnival to Santa Tecla.
The carnival is inspired by the satirical element, through dances and popular representations. A large procession with floats, trumpets and drums, which paves the way for the Diables of Tarragona, dance and popular performances.
The second phase of the cycle is represented by the celebrations of San Juan, on the occasion of the summer solstice, this year the 20 June 2024 at 16:58. The actual celebrations of the Noche de San Juan, however, take place at the turn of the 23 and the 24 June.
The cycle of Tarragona Diables, the celebrations of Santa Tecla, in September, close. For many, this is the most authentic party, when most tourists have left the coast, and there are almost all residents in the city. Santa Tecla, moreover, is the moment that marks the end of summer.
PRACTICAL INFO
CHARACTERS
The inevitable crown hat and cloak: here Lucifer, the great protagonist of the parade, accompanied by the inevitable consort, always at his side. He is a sort of conductor, who constantly incites i devils. These last ones keep the rhythm of the fire constantly lit; the sparkling clubs always well raised, and in sight.
I Diables Timbalers, accompany the parade with the sound of drums. They are 4, dressed identically to devils.
During the Santa Tecla fashion show, appears San Miquel, the archangel warrior, played by a boy or a girl. He who subdues the Devils with the raised sword.
THE 2024 HOLIDAYS
The annual cycle of Tarragona Diables, turns over three phases, from the Carnival to Santa Tecla. Below is the official program.
CARNIVAL
The Tarragona Carnival has its roots in the satirical and burlesque traditions of the event. A ceremony of particular appeal, with an incredible procession with carts, thunder and drums. And, of course, the inevitable night of the fire of the Ninot, on 13th February..
Because fire has always been the key element of the ceremonial. At the Tarragona Carnival 11 days of celebrations and fun await you, from 03 to 13 February. Do not miss the parade on 10th Saturday
SAN JUAN
It is the shortest night of the year, with devils and beasts taking the city. The summer solstice is a magical night of invocations to spirits and omens.
The festivities begin at the 18: 00, with activities for children at Plaça dels Àngels, while, at 19: 30 the fire begins to be the protagonist in El Serrallo with the neighborhood bonfire, and Ninot Cream.
At the 23:00, from Plaça de les Cols, the Cercavila de Foc begins, with the Diables of Tarragona, the Devils of the Pla de Santa Maria, and the Ferafoc de Sant Quintí de Mediona.
From 23:45, in Plaça dels Àngels, we dance and dance with the party organized by the Xiquets of Tarragona. The highlight of the San Juan festivities will be the great parade of the various groups, at the 00.10h on the Rambla Nova. Fires and large bonfires follow.
SANTA TECLA
The most important festival of Tarragona, which falls on the September 23. In fact, the festivities last a good 10 days. More info from this link.
WHERE TO SLEEP
Pigal is one of the best solutions for value for money, to stay in Tarragona. With free high-speed WiFi in all areas, the Pigal is located in central Tarragona, just 100 meters from the Palau Firal i de Congressos de Tarragona and 5 minutes walk from Tarragona train station.
Bright and heated, rooms include a private bathroom. A buffet breakfast is served in the dining area.
In 10 minutes walk you can reach the old town, the bus station and the beach of Tarragona.
Private parking is available, and the PortAventura theme park, 15 minutes away by car, is available. Info and reservations from here.