Balsareny Traginers Festival
Balsareny's Festa dels Traginers recalls traditional transport with pack animals and is held on the Sunday before Carnival.
Origins
Trades that depended on working animals traditionally honoured Saint Anthony the Abbot. Balsareny restored the festival permanently in 1943, and it developed from an animal blessing into a historical representation of transport.
Parade and traditions
The celebration includes a blessing, horses, carts, harnesses, music and a historical parade portraying old transport. The Torrada, Rebost, Taverna, dances and races complete the atmosphere.
Recognition
It was designated a Festival of Tourist Interest in 1970 and a Traditional Festival of National Interest in Catalonia in 1999. Local participation keeps the heritage of the traginers alive.