Every year, the Costa Brava becomes the setting for fairs and markets that transport visitors to past eras filled with culture, history, and tradition. These events, held in September, are immersive journeys to the Middle Ages, the legacy of the Indianos, the golden age of piracy, and more. They offer an ideal experience for enjoying with family, where education and enjoyment come together in a festive and authentic environment.

The most notable medieval fairs and markets in the Baix Empordà

Medieval Market of Besalú
August 31 – September 1, 2024

The Medieval Market of Besalú, one of the cultural jewels of the Costa Brava, transforms this picturesque town into a time-travel experience to the medieval era for two days. The cobblestone streets are adorned with stalls offering artisanal crafts and food, where visitors can find period products ranging from handmade jewelry and ceramics to traditional sausages. Visitors can also enjoy medieval dishes prepared according to ancient recipes, with delights like fire-roasted meats and handmade sweets.

The town becomes a lively medieval scene, with actors dressed in period costumes reenacting daily life to immerse the public in that time. Throughout the market, street performances featuring jugglers, acrobats, and musicians fill the streets with entertainment. Additionally, children can participate in educational workshops, learning crafts such as candle making or crown decoration, and enjoy traditional medieval games like archery.

One of the most anticipated moments is the reenactment of a medieval battle, where knights in armor engage in an exciting combat, transporting spectators to the era of chivalric feats. With historic buildings like the Old Bridge and the Church of Sant Pere, Besalú is the perfect setting for a journey to the past.

Indians Fair in Begur
September 6-8, 2024

The Indians fair in Begur is a vibrant celebration that commemorates the legacy of the “Indians,” those from Begur who emigrated to the Americas during the 19th century and returned with wealth and new ideas. The artisan market features products inspired by the era, such as exotic clothing and accessories. Visitors can also taste gastronomic specialties evocative of the Americas, including dishes with rum, coffee, chocolate, and other products introduced to Europe by the Indians.

The streets and squares of Begur are filled with Cuban and Caribbean dance performances, accompanied by music that recreates the festive atmosphere of colonial America. Children can participate in workshops to build small boats, recalling the transatlantic journeys of the Indians, or learn to dance Caribbean rhythms. Additionally, there are storytelling sessions that narrate tales of pirates and adventures across the Atlantic, captivating the imaginations of the young ones. The town’s decoration with flags and flowers, combined with music and activities, creates an atmosphere that transports all visitors to the era of the Indianos, offering an experience that blends history, culture, and fun.

Medieval Market of Castelló d’Empúries
September 6-8, 2024

Medieval Market of Castelló d’Empúries is an immersive experience set in the Middle Ages, taking place in a setting rich in historical heritage. For two days, the historic center transforms into a medieval market with stalls offering artisanal crafts, traditional foods, and decorative items. One of the highlights is the recreation of ancient trades, where artisans dressed in medieval attire demonstrate their skills in crafts such as ceramics, blacksmithing, and textile making. Visitors can observe these ancient techniques up close, adding educational value to the experience.

The market also features medieval music and dance performances, along with historical reenactment groups who simulate battles and duels with authentic weapons. Children can enjoy heraldry workshops, designing their own family crests, as well as other interactive activities that allow them to experience medieval life firsthand. The historic buildings of Castelló d’Empúries, such as the Basilica of Santa Maria and the town walls, provide the perfect backdrop for this event.

Pirates and Corsairs Fair in L’Estartit
September 20-22, 2024

The Pirates and Corsairs Fair in l’Estartit celebrates the era of pirates and corsairs who once roamed the Mediterranean coasts. For three days, the town transforms into a pirate port, offering a fun-filled family experience. The streets become stages for maritime adventures with historical reenactments: pirate parades, sword fights, and landings are just some of the activities that provide an authentic pirate experience.

Children can participate in costume workshops, designing their own pirate hats or wooden swords, as well as in treasure hunts, following clues to find the coveted chest. Storytelling sessions by the sea, featuring tales of pirates and ghost ships, are another highlight of the event. The fair also includes themed stalls where visitors can purchase pirate-related products while enjoying dishes like fresh fish and exotic drinks, rounding out the gastronomic experience in a festive atmosphere.

In addition to these events that make September a month full of culture and history on the Costa Brava, we would like to remind you that Club Nàutic Estartit also offers a wide range of activities throughout the year to enjoy the club, the sea, and the outdoors. This way, you can complete this special month with moments of fun and relaxation, making September on the Costa Brava a truly well-rounded and emotion-filled experience!