Sant Jordi in Sitges
On April 23, Sitges joins all of Catalonia to celebrate Sant Jordi—a day when streets turn into open-air bookshops and florists, couples exchange books and roses, and the town glows with literary charm by the sea. Often called the “Catalan Valentine’s Day,” Sant Jordi blends romance, reading, and community in one sunlit spring ritual.
The Legend and the Meaning
Sant Jordi (Saint George) is Catalonia’s patron. According to legend, he slew a dragon to save a princess; from the dragon’s blood sprang a rosebush. Modern tradition pairs the rose with a book in homage to Shakespeare and Cervantes, who both died around April 23. In Sitges, the symbolism feels perfectly at home: beauty (roses), stories (books), and the sea (setting).
What Happens in Sitges on April 23
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Stalls everywhere: The old town and Passeig Marítim host bookstands and flower stalls—from indie presses and children’s authors to classics and contemporary hits.
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Signings & readings: Local writers, poets, and illustrators hold signings, short talks, and readings in plazas, library patios, and cultural centers.
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School and family activities: Story hours, craft corners (make-your-own bookmark or paper rose), and treasure hunts around literary themes.
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Balcony flair: Shop windows and balconies display red-and-gold Senyera ribbons, rose motifs, and hand-lettered quotes.
What to Buy (and Gift)
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Roses: Traditional red for love; pink, yellow, white, or blue for friendship, gratitude, or remembrance. Many come with a wheat sprig and ribbon.
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Books: New Catalan fiction, Spanish-language bestsellers, art and design volumes (perfect in Sitges), cookbooks focused on Catalan cuisine, and children’s picture books.
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Local picks: Photography books of Sitges, histories of the Church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla, and guides to Garraf hiking or Penedès wines.
A Perfect Sant Jordi Day Plan
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Morning promenade: Coffee and a croissant, then browse the first stalls along the Passeig Marítim before crowds swell.
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Midday culture stop: Pop into Cau Ferrat or Maricel Museum for an art interlude.
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Lunch with a view: Fideuà or seafood rice plus a glass of cava; save room for a shared dessert.
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Afternoon signings: Circle back to the old town for author meet-and-greets and a rose purchase.
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Golden hour gifting: Exchange your book-and-rose on a bench near the church steps as the light softens.
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Evening toast: Vermut or Malvasia de Sitges to close the day.
Tips for Visitors
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Go early: The prettiest roses and signed first editions go fast.
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Language notes: Many titles are in Catalan and Spanish; you’ll also find English-language shelves at select stalls.
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Weather-ready: April is mild but variable—carry a light layer and tote bag for books.
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Cash/card: Most vendors accept cards, but small cash speeds things up at busy stands.
For Families
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Kids’ corners: Look for puppet shows, coloring tables, and storytellers—usually signposted near libraries and plazas.
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Young readers’ picks: Catalan and Spanish picture books about Sant Jordi and the dragon make charming souvenirs.
Why Sant Jordi in Sitges Feels Special
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Scenic setting: Book and rose stalls set against white façades, palm lines, and the Mediterranean—photo magic at every turn.
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Human scale: Compact streets keep everything walkable; you’ll run into the same smiling bookseller twice.
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Cultural heartbeat: It’s not a tourist show—it’s Sitges’ community celebrating love and literature together.
