Andorra la Vella Festa Major Ends with Record Paella Amid Heat

Andorra la Vella's Festa Major concluded Monday with its traditional paella gathering drawing hundreds despite intense heat, as local leaders praised the event's family-oriented success and zero major incidents.

Consol Major Consol Sergi González described the five-day festival as peaceful and engaging, with more than 67 activities across parish venues. Coordination with security forces and emergency services ensured smooth operations. "We're very pleased—it's a very family event with a great atmosphere over these five days," he said, emphasizing the calm coexistence among attendees.

The paella, the festival's closing highlight in Plaça del Poble, sold over 700 pre-booked portions, with capacity for up to 1,000 diners. Larger new pans sped up preparation for a creamier rice, though shade remained limited under the blazing sun. Lines formed by early afternoon. To counter the heat, the council opened the air-conditioned Congress Centre hall alongside outdoor seating—a setup that worked well, as it had during the earlier Festa del Poble.

González noted participation matched past years, with around 600-700 advance tickets typically selling out.

In related updates, González welcomed confirmation that FC Barcelona's women's first team will hold a preseason camp in Andorra la Vella, crediting months of effort to promote the parish for elite sports stays. The club praised short distances between the hotel, communal stadium—already used by FC Andorra—and training areas. Over €1 million has been invested in facilities. The stay focuses on physical and tactical work, with no friendly matches planned, though parallel public activities are under discussion. "Having a team like this is a joy," he said.

Looking ahead, the council is exploring uses for the Cirque du Soleil tent after its current contract ends in 2027, as the existing format will not continue. Options include a major concert or large-scale event, though no firm plans exist. González stressed the need to assess availability, costs and feasibility, noting the tent's past use for other activities and its non-overlap with the festival.