Popular festivals
The surrounding area can also be enjoyed through its traditions, celebrations, and lively events. Throughout the year, Roses and other nearby towns come alive with music, culture, and local gatherings, showcasing the destination's vibrant side.
Incorporating one of these festivals into your vacation is a wonderful way to connect with the local culture and experience unique moments by the sea. It's the perfect complement to a getaway filled with excitement, color, and authenticity.
Roses Carnival
Roses Carnival is one of the town's most famous celebrations and one of the liveliest events on the Costa Brava. It stands out for its costume and float parades, its choreographed performances, and the involvement of the local groups, who spend months preparing for this highly anticipated festival.
If you're looking for festivals in Roses with music, color, and a lively atmosphere, this is one of the best times to visit. It's an ideal celebration to experience the destination in a more authentic, fun, and local way.
Saint John's Eve
The Saint John's Eve marks the night of June 23rd to 24th in Catalonia, welcoming summer with bonfires, fireworks, outdoor dinners, and street celebrations. It is one of the most deeply rooted traditions in the Mediterranean festive calendar and one of those moments experienced with particular fervor on the coast.
If you happen to be there during these dates, you'll enjoy one of the most vibrant nights of the season on the Costa Brava. It's the perfect way to add a summery, seaside experience to your vacation, imbuing it with that festive energy that completely transforms the destination.
Summer festivals and music on the Costa Brava
Summer in the Alt Empordà region is also celebrated through its many festivals. Nearby, you can enjoy the Perelada Festival, held annually between July and August, featuring a program of opera, classical music, dance, and other musical offerings; Sons del Món, with concerts in the Ciutadella of Roses and in wineries throughout the Empordà region; and Portalblau, the Mediterranean music and arts festival taking place in L'Escala and Empúries.
What's interesting about these festivals is that each one offers a distinct experience. Perelada stands out for its elegant setting and cultural program, Sons del Món combines live music with the charm of Roses and the area's winemaking tradition, and Portalblau adds concerts and performing arts in heritage sites by the sea. If you'd like to complete your getaway with a special night out, these are three perfect options to add culture, atmosphere, and a unique touch to your Costa Brava vacation.
Roses Main Festival
The Roses Main Festival is celebrated around August 15th, the feast day of Saint Mary, and is one of the highlights of the summer in the town. During these days, Roses is filled with fairs, stalls, concerts, and popular events, as well as iconic traditions such as the giants, the big-headed figures, the human towers, and the sardana dance.
It's a very attractive option if you want to discover the livelier side of the destination and enjoy events in Roses with a real local atmosphere. It combines leisure, tradition, and activities for all ages, making it a perfect fit for a summer getaway on the Costa Brava.
Terra de Trobadors
Terra de Trobadors, in Castelló d'Empúries, is one of the most renowned medieval festivals in Catalonia and one of the most unique celebrations in the Alt Empordà region. The event transforms the historic center into a grand medieval reenactment with a market, shows, music, cultural activities, and an atmosphere that makes a visit a truly distinctive experience.
It's worth going because it's not just a party, but a complete immersion in the town's history and heritage. If you're looking for medieval festivals near Roses or unique activities during your stay, this is a highly recommended excursion for families, couples, and groups.
