On 16 July several coastal towns in Catalonia celebrate the feast of the Mare de Déu del Carme, the patron saint of seafarers. In Empuriabrava it means several festival days with a procession along the canals, music in the streets, a sardinada and fireworks. Here are the key facts.
The Fiesta del Carmen at a glance
- When: around 16 July; in 2026 the Festes del Carme in Empuriabrava ran from 15 to 19 July
- What for: festival of the fishermen and the sea in honour of the Mare de Déu del Carme, the patron saint of seafarers
- Programme: procession along the canals and music in the streets, according to our report also a parade through the town, the famous “Sardinada” and a big fireworks display
- Where: Empuriabrava, a district of Castelló d’Empúries
- More about the place: Empuriabrava – Spain’s little Venice
Feast in favor of the Patron of the Seafarers
Like all coastal towns in our region, celebrate Empuriabrava on July 16th Fiesta del Carmen In honor of the Jungfrau of the same name. The main attractions of this festival, which has long been part of the tradition of our community, are the Moving through the canals and streets the city, the famous ‘Sardinada’ and that Big fireworks.
The lonely man on the sea is in constant struggle with the elements, the uncertainty is the constant companion of the fisherman. So it’s not surprising when he seeks the support of heaven and especially honors his saints, even in times of speedboats and GPS.
The most important of his festivals in Spain is that the Virgen del Carmen, Madonna of the Sea and the Protector of Fishermen and Seafarers. Already in the Middle Ages it was believed that Mary was in reality “Star of the Sea” meant and the festival of the Carmelite Virgin was also known for a long time. 
In the 18th century, a Spanish naval admiral first ordered celebrations in honor of these saints and eventually became the most important Patron of the Seafarers.
Even today she will with long Boat processions, fireworks, church services and concerts honor. The celebrations take place every year around July 16th, because on such a day it is said to have appeared in a certain Simon Stock in 1251. If you want to pray to her for the rest of the year, you have to statue at the port find.
Frequently asked questions about the Fiesta del Carmen
When is the Fiesta del Carmen in Empuriabrava?
Around 16 July. In 2026 the Festes del Carme in Empuriabrava took place from 15 to 19 July. The programme changes from year to year; current dates are given by the municipality of Castelló d’Empúries.
What is celebrated at the Fiesta del Carmen?
On 16 July several places on the Catalan coast celebrate the feast of the Mare de Déu del Carme, the patron saint of seafarers (Castelló d’Empúries). The Festes del Carme are regarded as the festivals of the fishermen and the sea (Turisme de Catalunya).
What happens at the procession in Empuriabrava?
There is a procession along the canals, with music in the streets (Turisme de Catalunya).
What is the sardinada?
A communal sardine meal. According to Wikipedia the festival in Empuriabrava also includes regattas, parachute displays, exhibitions, sardana dances and habaneras.
Is the Fiesta del Carmen only celebrated in Empuriabrava?
No. On 16 July several coastal towns in Catalonia celebrate the feast, in many places on the weekend around that day (Castelló d’Empúries, Palamós).
Sources: Ajuntament de Castelló d’Empúries, Festes del Carme, Turisme de Catalunya, Festes del Carme, Wikipedia, Empuriabrava.
