Sant Jordi 2021 has the green light to go ahead this year on 23rd of April. And this beautiful day of the book and the rose is just around the corner! After it was cancelled last year and postponed to July, you’re probably how exactly this much-awaited event on the Barcelona calendar is going to be celebrated in 2021.
From the latest restrictions and measures, plus this year’s activity programme, we’ve got you covered in this article on Sant Jordi 2021. Although this year will be different from past years, we want to make sure it is still a day to remember.
Read on to find out more….
Table of Contents
Why is Sant Jordi so important?
The Catalan answer to Valentine’s Day, this event commemorates both Saint George’s day (or Sant Jordi as he is known in Catalonia) and World Book Day. The beginnings of this event celebrating love, books and of course, a love for books, lie in the story of Sant Jordi and the dragon. If you’d like to find out more about its history and origins, read more in our article here.
So here’s our round up of what Sant Jordi 2021 will be like. Additionally, given these uncertain times, we recommend double checking events online before attending.
Where can I buy books this Sant Jordi 2021?
Sant Jordi 2021 will take place over three days: 21, 22 and 23 April, this gives book sellers and customers alike more time to browse and will prevent large numbers of people gathering on the 23rd.
The plan that has been approved for this year’s event aims to, above all, avoid the usual crowds and, if possible, encourage bookstores to set up outdoor stalls. The usual stalls will be set up on around the centre of the city with a distance of 2 metres between each one, with a separate entrance and exit and a limit of 50% capacity.
Additionally, bookshops will be open as normal, also with a maximum capacity of 50% and following the recommended safety measures that are in place.
What about roses?
This Sant Jordi 2021, only florists have been given the go ahead to sell roses. There will be outdoor stalls, as usual, in the main areas around the city.
What’s more, the city will host several small Sant Jordi “fairs” where books and roses will be sold in a selection of outdoor spaces, ranging from Passeig de Gràcia, Arc de Triomf and Plaça Reial, in addition to Rambla del Poble Nou, the Palau Robert Gardens and Diagonal.
Can I get my books signed this Sant Jordi 2021?
This year it is possible to get your books signed, but not in the usual way. Despite the measures being still unconfirmed, it looks like, in order to avoid long queues and crowds, authors will not sign copies of their books inside bookshops. However, it will be possible to order a signed copy of your favourite book and pick it up the next day! The option of having authors sign copies but outdoors also looks likely.
It is also worth noting that this Sant Jordi 2021 will not host the usual events and talks with writers and authors that usually take place, nor any prize-giving ceremonies.
Eventhough you can find some activities for the familiy here
How can I celebrate Sant Jordi 2021 at home?
There are also many ways to celebrate this day dedicated to books and roses from the comfort of our your own homes. One of our favourite things to do is to try our hand at making homemade Pa de Sant Jordi. This typical type of bread recreates the colours of the senyera (the Catalan flag) and is usually filled with sobrasada sausage and cheese. We’re slightly biased, but it is simply delicious! Find the recipe here.
You can also shop online to treat yourself or a loved one to a book whilst still supporting local sellers. Visit the platform “LlibreriesObertes” (OpenBookstores) to start browsing now!
Finally, if you’re stuck for inspiration this Sant Jordi 2021, why not check out our article on 8 books set in Barcelona that you’re sure to love for some gift ideas.
We hope you have a fantastic day filled with love and books. Let us know how you’re planning to celebrate Sant Jordi 2021!
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