Your Costa Brava Summer 2025 Festival Guide

A look at the best music and cultural events happening from mid-July through August.

Photo by Maxime Bhm

From mid-July through to the end of August, towns and villages across the Costa Brava play host to open-air concerts, night markets and cultural festivals — often staged in unusual or historically significant settings. This guide highlights nine upcoming events worth knowing about, with practical details to help you choose what to see, how to get there, and what to expect when you arrive.

Many of the Costa Brava’s summer festivals are shaped by their surroundings. Performances take place in castle courtyards, pine-shaded gardens and medieval town squares, often with the sea somewhere nearby. Much more than just a backdrop, the setting affects the sound, the pace, the way people arrive and leave. Some festivals feel informal and close-up; others more polished and theatrical, depending on where they’re held.

Many festivals here are rooted in long-standing traditions or are supported by local councils and volunteers. They’re places where you’ll hear Catalan alongside Spanish and French, find food trucks run by nearby restaurants, and stumble across workshops or performances you won’t find in any guidebook.

Whether you’re into headline acts, indie finds or classical ballet, there’s something coming up that’ll fit your trip — and maybe even shape it.

When and where: your summer festival calendar at a glance

With summer in full swing, now’s the time to catch the best of the Costa Brava’s festival season. Most of the big events take place between mid-July and late August, with a few continuing into early September. Whether you’re based inland or near the coast, there’s likely something worth seeing just a short drive away.

July to August highlights

Here’s a quick look at the standout festivals still to come this summer:

• Cap Roig Festival – Calella de Palafrugell | 12th July–19th August
• Porta Ferrada Festival – Sant Feliu de Guíxols | 12th July–20th August
• Sons del Món – Roses & Empúries | 25th July–10th August
• Festival Castell de Peralada – Peralada | July & August
• Acústica Festival – Figueres | 28th August–31st August

Most events release tickets online, with some selling out fast — particularly weekend headliners and shows in smaller venues.

How to plan around them

Accommodation can get booked up quickly in festival towns, especially if a major act is performing. If you’ve got a base elsewhere, consider driving in for the evening and booking parking in advance. Alternatively, some festivals offer shuttle buses or park-and-ride options.

You may feel it’s worth arriving early, having dinner first, and avoiding the last-minute dash. Inland festivals in places like Peralada tend to be less hectic but may involve longer, darker drives home — keep that in mind if you’re planning a family evening out.

Cap Roig Festival – Calella de Palafrugell

This is the Costa Brava’s most high-profile summer festival, set in a botanical garden overlooking the sea. Big-name acts play on a cliffside stage surrounded by pine trees, with a relaxed but polished vibe.

What to know

• Dates: 12th July–19th August
• Style: Pop, rock, flamenco, classical
• Setting: Outdoor amphitheatre in landscaped gardens
• Crowd: Mixed — locals, Barcelona residents, international visitors

It’s a well-run event with top-quality sound and a stunning natural backdrop. Most people dine in Calella before heading up to the venue — but book early as restaurants fill fast. The walk from town is steep (around 20 minutes), and parking is limited, so plan ahead.

Tickets for major acts go quickly and can be pricey, but midweek shows often offer better availability and value.

Porta Ferrada Festival – Sant Feliu de Guíxols

One of the oldest festivals in Catalonia, Porta Ferrada runs throughout summer in this lively coastal town. It mixes music, theatre and comedy across venues — but the main action happens near the port.

What to know

• Dates: 12th July–20th August
• Style: Broad mix – from Catalan bands to international pop and jazz
• Setting: Outdoor venues around the seafront and cultural centre
• Tip: Pair it with dinner at the marina before the show

Many concerts are ticketed, but free performances pop up in public squares too. It’s a good option for a last-minute plan if you’re already staying nearby.

Sons del Món – Roses and Empúries

This one’s a highlight for its settings alone. Shows take place in the Ciutadella de Roses and among the ruins at Empúries — Roman columns lit by moonlight, with music in the air.

What to know

• Dates: 25th July–10th August
• Style: Spanish pop, flamenco, world music
• Setting: Historic sites, open-air seating
• Tip: Arrive early for sunset views and wine tastings

Some concerts are paired with DO Empordà wine events, and it’s worth splashing out for the Empúries shows — you won’t get a better backdrop.

Festival Castell de Peralada – Peralada

Set inside the grounds of a 14th-century castle, this is the Costa Brava’s most elegant festival — with opera, ballet and classical music taking centre stage.

What to know

• Dates: July and August
• Style: Opera, symphonic concerts, ballet
• Setting: Open-air stage in castle gardens
• Crowd: Culture-focused, dressed smartly

It’s a more formal evening — think reserved seating, pre-booked dinners, and a well-dressed crowd. Ideal if you’re after a special night out that feels a bit different from the usual summer gig.

Acústica Festival – Figueres

A high-energy urban festival that takes over the centre of Figueres each August. It’s loud, fun, and packed with live acts — mostly Catalan and Spanish artists — across multiple stages.

What to know

• Dates: 28th August–31st August
• Style: Local Catalan bands and artists
• Setting: Streets, squares and parks in central Figueres
• Tip: Many concerts are free

Expect a big crowd and a buzzing atmosphere. Come early if you want to grab dinner nearby, and don’t expect to park easily — use public transport if you can.

Making the most of your festival experience

Even if you’re planning things last-minute, a bit of local knowledge can make all the difference. Here are a few simple tips to help you enjoy the Costa Brava’s festival season without unnecessary hassle.

How to buy tickets safely

Most festivals use official ticketing platforms or the event’s own website. Avoid unofficial resellers unless you know they’re reliable. If you’re flexible, midweek shows often have better availability and a more relaxed atmosphere. And don’t forget to look for free events — Acústica and Porta Ferrada often include them in their line-ups.

Staying comfortable

It might be Spain, but nights by the sea can get breezy — bring a light jumper or scarf. Proper shoes are a must for venues with gravel paths or uphill walks (Cap Roig especially). A small cushion or something to sit on can also be a welcome addition, especially for long classical performances.

Bring water — many venues let you take in a sealed bottle — and don’t forget insect repellent if you’re heading inland.

Getting there and around

Parking near major venues can be tricky, especially in smaller towns. Look for park-and-ride options if they’re offered, or consider staying nearby and walking. Taxis in rural areas can be unreliable at night — book one in advance or arrange a pickup if you’re going off the beaten track.

If you’re based centrally, check if there are shuttles or bus services running from your town — several festivals partner with local councils to make access easier.

Tags: Acústica, Castell de Peralada, Festivals, Music, Porta Ferrada, Sons del Món