Mercat de la Vall Draws Crowds to Andorra la Vella Despite Rain and Holiday

The eleventh edition of the Mercat de la Vall drew visitors to Andorra la Vella's Historic Centre on Saturday, 2 May, despite poor weather and the 1 May holiday bridge, which kept many locals away.

Around 30 stalls filled streets including Rambla Molines, Príncep Benlloch, Carrer de la Vall and Plaça Monjó, offering handmade items such as paintings, decorations and bags inspired by Japanese culture, plus local kilometre-zero foods like Encamp honey and chocolate. Vendors reported a slow but steady morning boosted by tourists and second-home owners, with footfall picking up before light rain around 1:45pm forced them to protect displays with tarps and plastic. Traders remained optimistic for the afternoon and summer editions, citing a family-like atmosphere among participants.

Natalia from Le Soufle d’Andorra, which distributes Encamp honey, said the market attracts tourists overlooked in supermarkets. Mireia of En el Coco de Mínims, participating for her third year with illustrations, noted it helps build recognition among residents and visitors, with strong sales. Newcomers Ariadna López and Carmen Montes found the debut challenging, as browsers hesitated to buy amid the rain. Veteran Susana Miranda of Sumiwithsoul, selling unique clothing and bags, expressed satisfaction with morning sales to loyal customers, some owning up to 30 pieces. Artist Jesús Castillo, featuring Andorran landscapes, praised the communal vibe and hoped to match last year's success. Artisan Blaia Morera observed lower turnout for local products during holiday weekends.

Tourists gave positive feedback: Josep Ramon and Carmina called it a valuable showcase for crafts, while visitors Carme and Toni from Sant Sadurní d’Anoia found it engaging despite its size. Joan Miquel attended on his mother's recommendation.

The children's Mercat de la Vall Menuts ran from noon to 8pm in Plaça Monjó—shifted due to construction at Casa de la Vall gardens—where children ran stalls and enjoyed wooden games, attracting families.

Organised by the commune’s Tourism and Commercial Promotion department with partners including the Agricultural Producers and Artisans association, La Xarranca Plastic Creators association and Historic Centre Traders association, the market runs 11am to 8pm on the first Saturday of each month through 3 October: 6 June, 4 July, 1-2 August (extended to 10pm for Festa Major), 5 September. Launched in 2016, it aims to revitalise the old town and highlight local talent.