The origins of the Escudella Festival in Castellterçol, Catalonia, are rooted in tradition and community, though their exact beginnings remain open to interpretation. Some believe the custom emerged as a way to offer a hot meal to visitors arriving for Carnival celebrations, while others link it to charitable practices, when townspeople prepared food for those in need. Whatever its origins, the festival has endured—and flourished—over time, with participation growing steadily year after year.
At the start of the 20th century, the celebration was a modest affair, with just a handful of tureens of escudella served in the town’s old square. The tradition was briefly interrupted during the Spanish Civil War, but it resumed immediately afterward, underscoring its deep significance to local life. Since then, the festival has continued to evolve while remaining faithful to its communal spirit.
Today, the Escudella Festival is a lively gathering that brings together locals, visitors, and even students eager to learn about this longstanding culinary custom. While it was once funded through community collections, the event is now supported and promoted by the local town council, ensuring its continuity for future generations.
Throughout the morning, village cooks prepare the escudella in the town square, using a striking setup of iron frames and dozens of large pots suspended over heat. The stew—made from a rich broth of meats and traditional ingredients—is carefully stirred and skimmed as it cooks, producing enough food to serve thousands of people.
At midday, after a traditional blessing, the escudella is shared among those gathered in the square. Some enjoy it on the spot, while others take part in the festive atmosphere that surrounds the meal. More than just a culinary event, the Escudella Festival is a celebration of solidarity, generosity, and shared heritage, offering visitors a warm and authentic glimpse into Catalan community life.