Ordino Celebrates Easter with Traditional Caramelles Procession Amid Sunny Skies

Ordino marked Easter Sunday with its longstanding caramelles procession, as some 20 singers from Coral Casamanya brought traditional music to the parish streets under sunny skies. The event kicked off at noon from Plaça Major in front of the comú, with the group performing two waltzes, the sardana *La Grandalla*, and the national anthem *El Gran Carlemany*. They toured key spots in the historic centre, including carrer del Mig, placeta del Pajó, and Segudet, gathering voluntary donations in a basket—a contemporary take on the medieval practice of collecting eggs for a communal feast featuring fritters.

Coral director Josep Puig highlighted the joyful atmosphere, saying the singers aimed to let residents "sing and enjoy" while sharing their repertoire. He described the itinerant format as central to the tradition but noted ongoing challenges in drawing younger members amid shifting musical preferences. The participation of one young singer offered encouragement, with Puig crediting family ties: children of former singers are more inclined to join. Rooted in medieval Easter celebrations of resurrection and spring, the custom evolved through figures like Anselm Clavé, who introduced lighter, romantic songs often sung by young men to women.

Cònsol menor Eduard Betriu and consellera general Berna Coma joined locals, tourists, and visitors, who applauded the performances. Ordino's caramelles endure as a vital part of Andorran heritage, thriving alongside Sant Julià de Lòria and newer efforts in places like Encamp.

In Encamp, the revived Sant Romà de les Bons festival gained momentum on Easter Monday, led by 15 to 20 young singers in traditional attire. Following mass at the 12th-century Romanesque-Lombard church—consecrated in 1164 with its single nave, semicircular apse, and Gothic fresco reproductions—the group performed pieces including *La Pepa d’Andorra - Les ninetes d’Ordino*, *La Fhasa*, and the national anthem, cheered by crowds. The day continued with laurel leaf distribution, a communal breakfast, and a sardana dance that drew les Bons residents together with the broader parish.

Culture, Childhood, and Youth councillor Joan Sans praised the second consecutive year of growth after a 2019 pause: steady volunteer increases, fine weather, and comú support signal further expansion. "There is youth in Encamp eager for tradition. We showed it last year, and this year we are an even bigger group," he said, adding that the momentum from the young participants and organising committee will keep the custom alive.