Ordino Carnival 2025: Traditions, Plays and Festive Parades from Feb 13-18

Ordino is preparing for its annual Carnival from February 13 to 18, offering a mix of longstanding traditions, music, family activities, and festive events organized by the Ordino commune and the Associació de Cultura Popular d’Ordino, with support from local groups.

The schedule kicks off on Friday, February 13, with a school parade along Carrer Major, ending in dancing at Plaça Prat de Call. That afternoon at Plaça Major, King Carnival will be hoisted, followed by the reading of the proclamation, dancing, and a party featuring Manel Soriano, concluding with a popular hot chocolate. Participants include Esbart Valls del Nord, Punt Jove d’Ordino, and the grallers and tabalers from Castellers d’Andorra.

Traditions remain central, with the Associació de Cultura Popular d’Ordino staging key acts. On Monday, February 16, at Plaça Major, around 30 actors from the association—joined by Esbart Valls del Nord and Coral Casamanya—will perform the Smugglers’ play. Based on the classic tale of outsiders mistaken for smugglers in Ordino, the production weaves in annual commentary on current events. Hot broth will be served afterward by the commune, followed by an afternoon children’s costume dance with hot chocolate and coca for the young ones.

The festival closes on Wednesday, February 18, with a free “Per Carnaval posa’t el millor somriure” workshop at La Capsa creative spaces, open to all ages. In the evening at Plaça Major, the notary of the Valls d’Andorra will read King Carnival’s will, leading to his funeral procession with mourners, grallers, and tabalers from Castellers d’Andorra, his burning, and a sardine feast priced at 3 euros.

Ordino’s event underscores its commitment to participatory traditions, inviting residents and visitors alike. Meanwhile, nearby Encamp’s Carnival follows the next weekend, from February 14 to 18, with its own rituals like the Bear Dance and modern additions such as street performances. Details for Pas de la Casa’s celebration are expected soon.