Every September, Sitges comes alive with one of its most cherished traditions: Santa Tecla, the small Festa Major. In 2025, celebrations will run from September 13 to 28, with the main days on September 22 and 23.
The festival blends Sitges’ rich heritage: parades of giants and cabezudos, folk dances, fire parades, satirical verses, concerts, and religious processions. Santa Tecla, patron saint of the parish of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla, is honored with a festive program where both children and adults play leading roles.
Highlight Events
Nit de Foc – Saturday, September 20
One of the most anticipated nights of Santa Tecla is the Nit de Foc (Night of Fire), a spectacular evening of flames, sparks, and music.
- 7:30 PM: Timbalada drum parade starting at Fragata.
- 8:30 PM: Espetegafoc, fireworks and crackling in Plaça de l’Ajuntament.
- 9:30 PM: Correfoc with devils and fire beasts through the old town streets.
- 11:00 PM: Live concerts at Fragata beach.
Children’s “Versos” – Friday, September 19 & Sunday, September 21
Kids also take center stage with the traditional versos infantils (children’s satirical verses).
- Friday, Sept 19 at 5:30 PM: Children’s Proclamation at Palau del Rei Moro.
- Sunday, Sept 21 at 5:30 PM: Gathering of children’s dragons and devil groups at Pont d’en Domènech, followed by parade and versos infantils performance.
Monday, September 22 – The Vigil
The vigil marks the solemn start of festivities, crowned by fireworks.
- 2:00 PM: 21 cannon shots and bell ringing at Fragata.
- 7:00 PM: Civic procession from Santiago Rusiñol street to the parish church.
- 11:00 PM: Fireworks show on Fragata beach, illuminating the church façade.
Tuesday, September 23 – Santa Tecla Day
The feast day is the climax of the celebration.
- 6:30 AM: Matinal de foc fire parade through old town streets.
- 7:00 AM: Matinal gran with giants, cabezudos, and children’s dances.
- 8:00 AM: Matinal petita for the youngest, starting at the Town Hall.
- 11:00 AM: Solemn Mass at the Parish Church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla.
- 1:00 PM: Human towers (castells) in Plaça de l’Ajuntament and vermouth concert.
- 6:30 PM: Descending the human tower (pilar) by Colla Jove de Sitges from Baluard.
- 7:00 PM: Grand procession in honor of Santa Tecla, with dances, music, and traditional figures.
- 12:00 AM: Closing concerts on Passeig de la Ribera.
