Encamp's Festa Major Honours 40+ Elders Over 85 in Emotional New Tribute

Encamp's Festa Major concluded with a heartfelt new-format tribute to around 40 residents over 85, allowing an entire generation to reconnect and share memories during the parish celebrations.

The event replaced the decades-old tradition of honouring only the oldest padrins with a broader gathering, attended by elderly residents born around the 1920s, 1930s, and up to 1941. A standout moment came from a video projection recapping major changes in Encamp over those 90 years, which moved many attendees. Organised by the Comissió de Festes with support from the Comú d'Encamp's departments, the initiative will continue next year with those aged 80 to 85, then annually welcome new 80-year-olds.

Minor Consul Xavier Fernández praised the shift as a sign of the parish's respect for its elders, noting the longstanding custom and thanking families, attendees, and collaborators. He said the generation being recognised had transformed Encamp and the country, urging younger people to seek their advice on essential values and experiences.

Albert Trullà, from the Comissió de Festes, called it one of the year's most special events, emphasising that festivals centre on people, reunions, memories, and intergenerational traditions.

Sílvia Ramond, the councillor for Social Affairs and Seniors, focused on the life stories behind the years, highlighting everyday gestures that quietly built the community and gave it soul.

Hhonoured guests, joined by relatives and friends, expressed gratitude for the reunion. The ceremony drew senior officials including General Syndic Carles Ensenyat, minister Ramon Lladós, general councillor Pere Marsenyach, and communal councillors Joan Sans and Sabrina Grégoire.

The tribute capped a lively festival that ended Sunday afternoon with water inflatables and the Festa de l'Escuma at Parc de l'Ossa, plus an evening DJ Mari Baz set in Plaça de Sant Miquel.