Summer on the Costa Brava doesn’t just sound like waves and seagulls. In Sant Feliu de Guíxols, good weather comes with a special soundtrack: music festivals that turn the town into an open stage for the world. If you’re staying nearby, get ready for magical nights filled with jazz, pop, soul or classical music, with the sea as your backdrop.
Porta Ferrada: the musical soul of Sant Feliu
The undisputed king of the summer music scene is the Porta Ferrada Festival, one of the oldest cultural events in Catalonia. Founded in 1958, it has managed to reinvent itself without losing its essence, offering an eclectic, ambitious programme year after year, with both national and international artists.
Where is it held?
The main venue is Espai Port, a stunning open-air stage right by the sea, though there are also concerts at the Municipal Theatre, Guíxols Arena and other spots in town.
What kind of music will you find?
Everything. Literally. Porta Ferrada doesn’t stick to just one genre. In the same summer you might see Europe, Antoñito Molina, Rosario, Andrés Calamaro, Sara Baras, Ginestà… From rock to flamenco, from indie to jazz.
When?
The festival runs from July to August, with events nearly every week. A perfect excuse to stretch out lunch, leave the beach in time… and head out to enjoy the night.
But the fun doesn’t stop with Porta Ferrada. There’s more!
Guíxols Comedy: because summer is also for laughing
Comedy lovers, this one’s for you. Guíxols Comedy brings the best national comedians to the local theatre and open-air venues. Monologues, live shows and an atmosphere of shared laughter — the perfect antidote to stress.
- Where: Municipal Theatre and public squares.
- When: Throughout the summer on selected dates.
- They’ve performed here: Berto Romero, David Fernández, Ana Morgade, Toni Moog…
A night of comedy in this setting is like a chilled vermouth — it goes down easily and feels even better.
Idilic Festival: alternative music with a nature vibe
If you’re after something more alternative, fresh and free-spirited, there’s the Idilic Festival. It combines indie, pop and electronic music with sustainability, art and nature. A young, vibrant event with lots of style.
- Where: Guíxols Arena.
- When: Late June.
- Confirmed artists: Melendi, Figaflawas, Dani Fernández, Marlon…
With a line-up full of top national acts, Idilic is perfect for dancing with your feet in the sand and your head in the clouds.
GHT tip: stay nearby, enjoy more
Staying at a GHT hotel near Sant Feliu de Guíxols is the perfect plan for enjoying the festival without stress or needing a car. Wake up to the smell of the sea, spend the day at the beach or exploring… and in the evening, dress up casual and let the music take over.
