Also...
If you happen to be travelling around the region, here in Catalonia we still keep some very old traditions at this time of the year and in several towns in the Pyrenees mountains, the Baixada de Les Falles (roughly translated as "the descent of the fire torches" ). They are celebrations related to the summer solstice and, in ancient times, they served as a preparation for the harvest and as a means to scare away the evil spirits. The is also a romantic story behind, of course: http://infocatalonia.eu/w/JRFGF
The county of Alta Ribagorça (ree-bah-gore-sah) is well known for its amazing landscapes and also for the magnificent examples of religious art and architecture from the 11th century, the best example of Romanesque Art in Europe, and UNESCO site since 2000. So if you happen to be around, take the opportunity to visit it, you'll be 'woowed' :)
Different towns celebrate this festival at different dates, from mid-June to late July. They are normally held on a Saturday albeit it's not necessarily a rule. For 2019: Durró on June 15th; Senet on June 22nd; Boí, Casós, Pont de Suert and Vilaller on June 23rd; Barruera on June 29th; Erill La Vall on July 6th; Taüll on July 19th and Llesp on July 27th. For further details: https://www.vilaweb.cat/noticies/falles-pirineus-2019-guia/
Another great one to see is La Patum in Berga. Use Google translate for this article, it explains it in a nutshell. Gotta say this one is a tad "crazy", meaning the elderly might find it "too much", LOL! For a more in-depth explanation (in English) including videos: http://www.lapatum.cat/en
Important: much like in other festivals where crowds and fire are involved, one must always be aware of the "rules" to avoid accidents. There hasn't been any serious incident in La Patum for years, if you plan on attending, let's keep it this way, please! Some more info: http://www.catalannews.com/life-style/item/la-patum-street-festival-ready-for-action
Note these are not 'tourist attractions' but local festivals by and for locals, but in which everybody is welcome to attend -please, note the difference! So those looking for "real experiences", these are good activities to consider.
Enjoy!
