Escaldes-Engordany Festival Restores Calm with Tight Security After Knife Scare

Escaldes-Engordany restored calm to its main festival site on Friday night through intensified security measures, with no major incidents reported after Thursday morning's disturbances involving a knife-wielding individual and an alleged chemical submission attempt. Sant Julià de Lòria also enjoyed a peaceful opening night for its patron saint celebrations.

Authorities in Escaldes-Engordany, alongside the Unió Pro-Turisme event organizers, confirmed the third night of festivities passed without significant issues. Private security teams reported a "very calm" evening, conducting widespread bag and body searches at the Veedors car park entrance. No dangerous items were found or seized, and the nearby parking area was closed for better oversight. Jaume Ambor, Unió Pro-Turisme spokesperson, said the enhanced checks aimed to prevent any hazardous objects from entering. Police verified no interventions were required.

Large crowds gathered for performances by Banda Neon, DJ Montalvo, and Xavi Metralla, creating a vibrant atmosphere that drew attendees from across Andorra, including some wearing Sant Julià festival shirts. Revellers noted the lively yet controlled scene, praising the DJ acts for attracting younger visitors.

In Sant Julià de Lòria, Plaça de la Germandat hosted the debut night with music until 5am, featuring DJ sets, a discomobile, and a Raffaella Carrà tribute. Local sources described a tranquil start, with Cònsol Major Cerni Cairat urging calm and stating that "four troublemakers cannot ruin the whole community's festival." The evening began with Orquestra Montgrins, followed by La Orquestra del Futuro at 12:45am, blending salon dances, hits, and disco. Crowds grew steadily, mixing nostalgic tracks with contemporary sounds, though early hours felt quieter than in previous years.

New details emerged on one of Thursday's arrests: a 23-year-old man from La Seu d'Urgell, detained after an alleged stabbing, received three months in prison that day for a prior conviction and re-entry into Andorra despite a three-year expulsion order. The assault probe did not advance, as the woman did not file a complaint and tests found no substances or evidence of a stabbing. He also faces two additional months for serious disobedience, converted to another three-year expulsion.

The parishes showcased contrasting vibes: Escaldes with its electronic focus and wider appeal, Sant Julià emphasising local roots.

Saturday's events proceed as planned. Sant Julià features La Banda del Rac at 10pm, La Divand from 1am, and DJ Jorge Peñafiel from 3am to 5am. Escaldes' Veedors car park has Zumba Fluor from 9:45pm to 10:45pm and a 1990s music concert at 11pm; Prat del Roure offers Orquestra Xarop de Nit dances at 11pm.