On the night of February 29, 2025, the Sitges Carnival proudly announced its new monarch, King Vergala Totarreus Partyhard Carnestoltes I. This year's festivities kicked off with grand theatricality and humor as the king emerged from the Fragata, accompanied by his vibrant and eclectic court representing party-goers from various historical epochs.
Acclaimed local group Paperets played the pivotal role of introducing the king, who hails from the intriguing parallel universe known as the Land of Perpetual Party. This extraordinary character’s arrival was facilitated by two clumsy workers, Totxana and Fusible, who discovered a mysterious barrel filled with magic potion within the Retiro's depths. This potion grants its imbibers the ability to revel eternally.
Throughout the evening, the king showcased his unique style by parading alongside famed historical characters such as Delírium Trèmens and guardian figures of the golden era of Sitges festivities, with Gauchdofresia ‘la divina,’ the illegitimate daughter of a Visigoth king, and Tsar Dinah of Siberia’s steppes also present.
The festivities continued as the royal entourage made their way to the Town Hall, where the Alcaldesa presented the king with the staff of governance, marking his official inauguration. "La Alcaldesa le entregó el bastón de mando de la Villa," noted observers as the moment captured the essence of the ceremonial celebration. From this platform, King Carnestoltes I delivered an engaging Predicot filled with satirical commentary about the local political scene and society, eliciting laughter and applause from the eager audience.
Joining the festivities was Queen Cansina Fardo and the child queen, both sharing the spotlight on this momentous occasion. The evening wrapped up with visits to traditional xatonades held by the Agrupació de Balls Populars, the Casino Prado Suburense, and the Societat Recreativa El Retiro, where the king adapted his speech to delight the attendees.
The following day kicked off with the carnival spirit reaching every nook of Sitges, as the king and queen set out to various schools and senior centers, spreading joyous cheer across all ages. A pre-parade event, known as the Rúa d’Antes, was scheduled for the evening at 7:30 PM at Cap de la Vila, embracing and evoking Sitges’ historical parades. The traditional route will carry revelers through the town’s most iconic streets, inviting everyone to don costumes and join the festive atmosphere alongside lively music.
Saturday, designated as the Fardo Day, is packed with activities including the quirky Bed Race starting from the Casino Prado at noon, and lively dances occurring along the Passeig de la Ribera and El Retiro later on. Anticipation builds as Sunday brings the initial major parades: the youth-centric Rúa Infantil at 12 PM and the much-anticipated Rúa de la Disbauxa at 7:30 PM, promising vibrant floats and excitement filling the streets.
Given the expected influx of around 250,000 visitors throughout the week, the local authorities have prepared thorough safety and sanitation plans, ensuring optimal conditions for all attendees. The festival is equipped with enhanced security and health measures, particularly during the busy festivities of Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday nights.
Additional support includes the ‘Punto Lila’, which will be strategically positioned within the dance area along Passeig de la Ribera and feature mobile units patrolling nightlife areas. On the days of the Rúa de la Disbauxa and Rúa del Exterminio, fixed stations will be established at Eduard Maristany Square to aid attendees.
To champion responsible consumption, the local government has also distributed 1,500 bottles of water among participating groups, affirming their commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability during the carnival.
The joy of Sitges Carnival 2025 blooms with every event and celebration, rooting its values deeply within the community and inviting visitors to bask in the festive spirit. With its colorful activities and rich tradition, this carnival is not just an event, but rather, it embodies the unity and happiness of Sitges as it embraces revelers from afar and right at home.