Santa Coloma de Farners is currently celebrating the 45th edition of the Fiesta de la Ratafia, one of the most emblematic events in the cultural and gastronomic calendar of the Girona region. Running from Thursday until Sunday, the capital of La Selva has transformed into a major gathering point for enthusiasts of this traditional liqueur, featuring a packed programme of activities, tastings, competitions, demonstrations, talks, music, and family-friendly proposals that attract thousands of visitors.
This Saturday morning, an institutional breakfast was held, attended by Miquel Noguer, president of the Diputació de Girona, and Jordi Camps, fourth vice president. Other notable attendees included Josep Prat, mayor of Santa Coloma de Farners; Sílvia Paneque, the regional minister for Territory, Housing and Ecological Transition and government spokesperson; Marc Lamuà, acting deputy in Congress; and Martí Pujals, a member of the Consell Comarcal de la Selva, along with various mayors from the region.
The delegation visited the fair and engaged with representatives from some of the thirty-six artisan product stands located in Plaza Farners, highlighting the deep-rooted nature and vitality of a celebration that helps preserve a centuries-old tradition.
This year's edition also carries a commemorative significance. To mark the 45th anniversary of the festival, the organisers have chosen to pay tribute to the Jovent del Poble organisation, which initiated the first ratafia contest in 1982. During the Ratafia Gala on Friday night, the organisation was awarded the title of Confrare de Honor. Following this, Montse Obiols from Roda de Ter was crowned the winner of this year's best ratafia contest, which saw a record 341 entries.
The festivities will conclude on Sunday with the final activities and tastings, featuring the participation of the Girona Excel·lent quality food label from the Diputació de Girona. Starting at 10:30 am, chef Jordi Àvila will conduct a demonstration titled 'Ratafia and Girona Excel·lent: cooking with the essence of the region'. The Fiesta de la Ratafia is jointly organised by the Santa Coloma de Farners City Council and the Confraria de la Ratafia, with support from the Diputació de Girona.
