Lights, music, and 25 tonnes of confetti in Salou

Lights, music and lots of confetti. Dressed up as Freddy Mercury, musketeers, angels or devils, more than 2,500 people paraded in 28 floats in the streets of Salou, in southern Catalonia. The main event of the Salou’s winter festival was a shower of confetti. More than 30,000 people attended it. While floats paraded in the streets, 20 canons shot a total of 25 tonnes of confetti into the air. At the end, visitors and participants were all covered with it.

The most popular event was the outdoor disco. From there, a musician and a speaker entertained the crowds. Local culture councillor, María José Rodríguez, stated that the Salou’s winter festival means “having fun” and that is why it has more attendees every year. She noted that people can enjoy both “music and confetti”.  

This year security measures have also been strengthened. 350 police officers took part in the police operation, including Catalan police, local police, firefighters and volunteer citizens. HGVs were not allowed to drive in the area on Saturday. According to Rodríguez, security measures have been strengthened because "emotions are running very high" after the terror attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils.

Now, a jury will decide which floats are in the running for the three top prizes; best costume, best choreography and best float. The awards amount to €3,900, and the winners will be unveiled in an event that will be held at end of this month.