The president of the Catalan Parliament, Josep Rull, emphasised the cultural and historical importance of Parc de Sant Eloi during his visit to Tàrrega for the annual Aplec de Sant Eloi. This longstanding event, held in the city's expansive green space, attracted thousands of visitors, particularly families, eager to enjoy nature and traditional cultural activities.
As a guest of honour, Rull participated in various festivities alongside Tàrrega's mayor, Rosa Maria Perelló, and other local officials. The day included the traditional breakfast of coca (a type of pastry) and peach, as well as popular cultural displays such as sardanes, a traditional Catalan dance, and family-friendly activities.
“Parc de Sant Eloi is an impressive space created by the people of this country and should be a source of pride for the residents of Tàrrega,” Rull stated. “Here, today, we gather the best of civic Catalonia, capable of maintaining its traditions and expressing a sense of belonging,” he added.
Rull also mentioned that the Aplec de Sant Eloi embodies an atmosphere of a great nation that deserves to regain its collective self-esteem.
Mayor Perelló highlighted the presence of many Tàrrega residents who have returned to the city for the FiraTàrrega festival, using the Aplec as a meeting point. During the event, Rull signed the Honour Book of the Friends of the Tree Association, where he learned about the group's efforts to preserve the park's natural and monumental wealth.
In addition, a commemorative tile was launched, designed by artist Josep Castellana, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Alba Association. The tile features an image of the Tree of Love, planted by the association during the Tree Festival in 2015.
The morning's events, organised by the Friends of the Tree Association and the Department of Culture, also included a sung mass by Ondara Gospel, performances by the Fal·lera Gegantera, children's games by Fefe i Companyia, and a dog show by the Tàrrega Agility Club. Furthermore, the 41st National Competition of Sardana Groups took place at the top of the hill, coordinated with the Friends of the Sardana of Tàrrega and the Union of Groups of Catalonia, featuring a dozen participating groups.
Notably, the new sardana group from Tàrrega made its debut at the event, having been introduced in May, and achieved success by winning in the veterans' category. The award ceremony was attended by both the mayor and Josep Rull.
The Aplec de Sant Eloi is part of the September Festivals, which also include a series of cultural events organised by local associations that began earlier in the week. This celebration revives the format of the traditional September Major Festival, with various organisations, including La Soll, AGRAT, CAU, and the Guixanet Association, drawing crowds to the Plaça de les Nacions sense Estat alongside FiraTàrrega.
