There are places where the stones seem to whisper stories of kings and knights every time the August heat settles into their streets. This is exactly what happens in Guimerà, a true architectural gem in the province of Lleida, which on August 8 and 9, 2026, will once again be completely transformed to celebrate the 31st edition of its now-iconic medieval fair.
Designated a Cultural Asset of National Interest since 1975, the town will welcome artisans, musicians, and cultural groups to revive a market privilege that King James II granted to the town back in 1294. Throughout the weekend, the historic district will become a large open-air stage where residents and visitors can immerse themselves in medieval life through reenactments, performances, and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
A monumental market and period encampments
The heart of the event will be the large market that will fill the town’s streets on Saturday and Sunday, featuring 120 craft stalls offering locally sourced products. Alongside it, a showcase of traditional crafts will allow the public to rediscover traditional techniques that have been all but forgotten today.
For those seeking a total immersion experience, the Plaza del Molí will host a military camp recreated by the Templers de Puig-reig Cultural Association. Here, visitors can get a glimpse into the daily lives of knights, witness combat demonstrations and jousting matches, and attend talks on medieval weaponry and civilian attire.
Circus, magic, and music around every corner
The festival will officially kick off on Saturday with a parade led by the Geganters i Grallers of Guimerà, who this year will be joined by the figures from Torrefarrera. Immediately afterward, the Wigmar theater company will deliver the opening address in the Plaza Mayor. The festive atmosphere will continue throughout the day thanks to Improvisto’s traveling show “La Cirquestra”—a mix of music, workshops, and circus acts—and the humor of magician Pablo l’Impressionant.
On Sunday, the streets will take on a different rhythm to the sounds of folk and Celtic music by Duet SAL150, which will offer several performances and a dance session in the Plaza Mayor. Children will have their own space at the wood-painting workshops hosted by Tot Medieval, while the more adventurous can try to solve “El Malefici,” a dramatized escape room on the banks of the Corb River.
Heritage Wide Open
Beyond the festivities, the town itself takes center stage.Guimerà preserves one of the best-preserved medieval ensembles in all of Catalonia. To make exploring it easier, a tourist train will connect the town center with the imposing tower of its 11th-century castle.
Guided tours will depart from there and make their way down to the La Cort del Batlle Museum. The weekend will also be the perfect opportunity to explore the ancient underground cellars of local homes, admire Celestí Bertran’s ceramics exhibition, or visit the Matern Magda Sanramà Art Museum.
Fire, theater, and how to get to the town
The weekend’s grand finale will feature a performance of “La petita gran història de Guimerà,” a play that uses the natural setting along the banks of the Corb River as its stage. The final farewell will take place on Sunday night, illuminated by a fireworks display over the river and capped off with a grand closing concert featuring the cover band Sicuta and a DJ in the parking area.
To reach this historic spot, keep in mind that there is no direct access from the main roads. Those traveling on the A-2 highway should take the Tàrrega exit and merge onto the C-14 toward Ciutadilla. Shortly before reaching Ciutadilla, take the T-241 toward Vallfogona, and halfway along that road, you’ll see the unmistakable stone silhouette of Guimerà.
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