Andorra Deploys Major Police Operation for Simultaneous Snowrow, Maricongelada Festivals

Andorra's police are deploying a comprehensive security operation this week for the simultaneous Snowrow and Maricongelada festivals, scheduled from March 12 to 15 in Grau Roig and Pas de la Casa. The events coincide with a third festival in Massana on Saturday, prompting the mobilization of officers from all units—both uniformed and plainclothes—including those on weekend leave, with assignments adjusted dynamically based on needs.

Authorities aim to safeguard participants and uphold public order amid large crowds, especially on Friday and Saturday. Snowrow expects thousands of attendees starting around 4pm and running until about midnight, while the LGBTQ+ Maricongelada event anticipates around 400 people and will extend later, as will the Massana gathering.

The effort features boosted on-site presence from the Citizen Security Unit, Road Safety Unit, Judicial Police and Criminal Investigation Area (including Aerial Resources), and Administrative and Support Police Unit. Central offices will add staff to manage potential increases in procedures, while the Border and Immigration Unit will heighten drug detection at border crossings before and during the festivals.

Narcotics checks will occur at entrances, and police have urged organizers to remind attendees that drugs are fully prohibited in Andorra, with criminal consequences—over 30 arrests occurred at last year's events.

Coordination involves festival organizers, private security, traffic services, emergency responders, and transport authorities to ensure safety and effective crowd evacuation. Several planning meetings have taken place, with a final session set for Thursday morning to finalize details. Officers will also secure Constitution Day activities that weekend.