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Barcelona celebrates 50 years of Grec Festival with star-studded opening night

The Grec Festival opens its 50th edition in Barcelona with political leaders and cultural icons attending amid summer heat.

3 Pau Vila · July 5, 2026, 06:54 · 3 min de lectura

The Grec Festival kicked off its 50th anniversary in Barcelona, attracting political and cultural figures. Salvador Illa and Jaume Collboni led the celebrations amid summer heat.

The vibrant atmosphere of Barcelona was palpable as the Grec Festival launched its milestone 50th edition on a sweltering summer evening. The event drew an impressive crowd, including prominent political leaders such as Salvador Illa, the president of the Generalitat, and Jaume Collboni, the mayor of Barcelona. Their presence underscored the festival’s significance in both cultural and civic life.

The opening night was marked by a blend of formality and festivity. Despite the heat, which became a central theme of the evening, attendees maintained their composure. Mayor Collboni was seen frequently fanning himself with a newspaper fan, while Illa engaged in light-hearted banter during performances that showcased local talent.

Among those present were notable figures from various sectors, including model Judit Mascó, who epitomized summer elegance with her stylish accessories. The festival not only celebrates artistic expression but also serves as a platform for social interaction among influential personalities.

A significant highlight was the attendance of Jordi Martí, recently elected leader of Junts party, who arrived without support from former leader Carles Puigdemont. His presence signified a new chapter for his party amidst shifting political landscapes in Catalonia.

The event also attracted key players from media and culture, such as Mabel Mas, director general of El Periódico; Isabel Vidal, head of Focus; and various artists like actors Carlos Cuevas and Lluís Homar. Their participation highlighted the festival’s role as a nexus for collaboration between politics and culture.

The festivities continued just days later at another popular venue—the Jardines de Pedralbes—where crowds gathered for the opening night of “Les Nits Occident” featuring musical group Taburete. This event showcased how diverse cultural offerings can unite different audiences under one roof.

Taburete has evolved significantly since their inception, moving beyond their early reputation tied to controversy surrounding lead singer Willy Bárcenas‘s family background. Now recognized for their unique sound and engaging performances, they have garnered a loyal following that transcends initial skepticism about their origins.

This year’s Grec Festival promises to be more than just entertainment; it reflects Barcelona’s rich cultural tapestry while fostering community connections through shared experiences. As temperatures soar this summer, attendees are encouraged to stay hydrated while enjoying an array of performances across various genres.

The festival runs throughout July at multiple venues across Barcelona. For those looking to attend upcoming shows or events related to Grec, tickets can be purchased online or at designated box offices around the city.

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Pau Vila

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