Around 180 singers from four historic choirs in Girona officially inaugurated the Fires of Sant Narcís with a performance in the Plaça del Vi. The event began with a joint parade showcasing the city’s festive imagery, including the revival of the giants of Xavier Cugat and the Drac Major, which had been lost to history.
The 2026 Fires of Sant Narcís commenced with a proclamation led by the Cor Maragall, the Capella Polifònica de Girona, the Cor Filharmonia, and the Coral del GEiEG. The choirs performed four pieces from a stage set up in the square, celebrating choral singing as a vital part of the city’s identity.
Prior to the performance, Girona's mayor, Lluc Salellas and Vilar, welcomed citizens from the balcony of the City Hall. He quoted Anselm Clavé, a pioneer of choral singing in Spain, saying, "Associate and you will be strong, educate yourselves and you will be free, love and you will be happy." He urged the community to appreciate choral music and to celebrate their culture and rights.
"Today we reclaim singing and culture as fundamental rights, as essential goods that make Girona a more humane, welcoming, and vibrant city!"
The proclamation featured speeches from the directors of the choirs, who emphasised the role of choral music as a bridge across generations, uniting people of all ages in song. They highlighted the health benefits, socialisation opportunities, and cultural learning that choirs provide.
During the proclamation, the choirs performed four songs: "Veniu amics!" by Josep Viader; "Senyor Sant Jordi," a work by Salvador Espriu set to music by Francesc Vila; "Tinguem tots bon Sant Narcís" by Enric Ribó; and the official anthem of Catalonia, "Els segadors," arranged by Josep Viader.
The inaugural festivities began at 5:30 PM with a unified parade, a departure from previous years when multiple parades were held. The return of the giants of Xavier Cugat and his muse, after two decades, was a highlight, as they paraded alongside the Caixa de Trons group. The route started at the Plaça del Vi, passed through the bridge of Sant Feliu, and continued to the Plaça de la Independència before returning to the starting point.
Following the parade, traditional plaza dances took place, and the newly restored Drac Major danced alongside the Drac Petit, a nod to the city’s rich folklore. These figures had been lost since the collapse of the chapel of Sant Miquel in 1859, with one dragon having been recovered nine years ago.
The celebrations concluded with a spectacular display of 300 drones illuminating the night sky, showcasing images tied to Girona’s history and traditions, creating a dreamlike journey through the city’s cultural landscape.
The first edition of LaViFarra also took place, with local establishments offering refreshments in the square, an initiative that will be repeated on 25 October and 30 October during the festivities.
