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Throughout the year, Andorran cultural tradition is revived at all the fiestas mayores in the villages of the Principality and also for some commemorative events.
Andorran folklore is represented by the typical dances such as la marratxa (Sant Julià de Lòria), Santa Anna's dance (Escaldes-Engordany), el contrapàs (Andorra la Vella), and also the sardana which can be danced in all the squares in the Principality, especially at festivals.
To understand the combination of Andorran festivals and customs you should take into account the special characteristics of Catalan culture, its geographic location and history.
Almost all the popular festivals and traditions coincide with religious festivals and natural cycles on Earth:
· St. George's Day (Sant Jordi), when roses and books are given as presents.
· Festa del Poble, celebrated on St. John's Day (Sant Joan) and marking the summer solstice.
· La fiesta de Sant Esteve, patrón de la parroquia de Andorra la Vella
· St. Lucia fair, where materials for making traditional Christmas crêches and typical Christmas products are on sale.
Cultural life
Being a country suited to tourism, the Principality hosts international, prestigious meetings throughout the year, demonstrating Andorran cultural life.
Apart from exhibitions dedicated to Andorra and "art without frontiers", the parish comuns organize well-known artistics activities of prestige:
· Jazz concerts, flamenc, spanish pop, local modern music
· Country Music Feast, Bagpipers' Meet, typical dances, dance exhibition
· Street theatre
· The Festival of Classic Music in Ordino (September)
· The Season of Music and Dance in Andorra la Vella (from November to May)
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