Rec.019 festival kicks off in Igualada’s old industrial district

Rec.019 festivities began on Wednesday in Igualada’s old industrial district, El Rec. Until 11 May, fashionistas, foodies and culture aficionados alike will be able to revel in all that this small city 50 km west of Barcelona has to offer.

To these effects, Anoia’s capital’s former factories and tanneries have been transformed for the 11^th year running to host pop up fashion stores, food trucks and cultural activities at 68 different sites.

Fashion on display

Leading brands such as Converse or Levi’s will be present at the Rec.0 Experimental Stores section of the first Rec.0 of the year, but it is also an opportunity to get to know a wide range of lesser-known up and coming designers at the festival’s many stands.

Another one of Rec.019’s quite literal selling points is its special prices as clothing is often marked down for this unique event.

Foodie paradise

If food is your thing, you’ll definitely find options galore at the Rec Street Food part of the festival. With 41 food trucks, 1 restaurant and plenty of vegan, veggie and coeliac-friendly options, there are gastronomical options to suit all kinds of tastes and dietary requirements.

Cultural activities

Much of Rec.019’s appeal comes from its free concerts, DJ sets, workshops (catering to both children and adults), talks and book presentations.

Some of this year’s biggest names include Blanes musical duo Kids from Mars, famed former Eurovision star Beth Rodergas, who will be presenting her new children’s book, or poet Josep Pedrals, who will also be presenting a new book.

El Rec, past and present

Rec.0 has been taking place twice a year since 2009, when a group of 6 people decided to organize an event showcasing fashion, food and culture in Igualada’s Rec neighborhood.

The old industrial district was once home to textile factories and tanneries that were important drivers of the local economy, but most fell into disuse by the mid-20^th century.

For the past 10 years, Rec.0 has helped revive an interest in the architecture, culture and history found among El Rec’s narrow streets, attracting some 120,000 visitors each time the festival is held.