The Fira de Sant Ermengol 2026 concluded on Sunday afternoon with a "very satisfactory" assessment from both organisers and exhibitors. Over the three-day event, which began on Friday 16 October and ran through to Sunday 18 October, approximately 7,500 tasting tickets for cheeses were sold, equalling last year's figures despite challenging weather on the final day.
Sales were particularly brisk on Friday and Saturday, with nearly 6,900 tickets sold during those days. Organisers noted that had it not been for the rain on Sunday, the event would likely have exceeded all expectations.
“The evaluation of this year's Fira is very satisfactory,” said Gemma Tó, the councillor for Economic Promotion at the La Seu d'Urgell City Council. “By Saturday afternoon, we had already matched or even surpassed last year's ticket sales, and although we were concerned about the rain on Sunday morning, the public's response has been fantastic. The promenade was filled with visitors carrying umbrellas, and activities continued to thrive.”
One notable aspect of this year's edition was the shift in consumer behaviour. While the rain did impact the total number of tastings, it significantly boosted direct purchases from producers. Many vendors reported excellent sales, with several running out of stock before the event's scheduled close. Tó remarked, “Tourists and visitors knew exactly what they wanted and made direct purchases.”
The relocation of the fair to the urban centre in 2024 has proven to be a wise decision, especially as a contingency against poor weather. Tó added, “The decision to hold the Fira in the urban centre has proven to be a great success for the third consecutive year, particularly on a rainy day like today. Having the ‘Plan B’ of the covered walkways allowed citizens and visitors to continue engaging with the community, enjoying cheese tastings while sheltering from the rain without losing the festive atmosphere.”
In addition to the cheese sector, various parallel activities were carried out smoothly. From children's events to concerts and choral performances, the programme saw high levels of participation. This vibrancy also positively impacted local commerce and street vendors, who benefited from the steady flow of visitors seeking shelter in the covered areas of the town centre.
The La Seu d'Urgell City Council expressed gratitude to residents, visitors, producers, and vendors, reaffirming its commitment to continue promoting the Fira de Sant Ermengol as a gastronomic and cultural landmark in the Pyrenees. The council also thanked all municipal workers whose efforts contribute to the event's success year after year.
