Catalan literary and linguistic cultural activities

Cultural activities centered on Catalan literature and language have progressed from local community events to large-scale advocacy during major book fairs.

Initial activities included localized literary gatherings in Igualada and Terrassa, featuring book club meetings, author discussions, and workshops hosted by libraries and bookstores. These events focused on specific works and genres, such as science fiction, philosophy, and children’s literature.

The focus expanded with the commencement of the 37th Setmana del Llibre en Català. During this period, literary events took on a stronger dimension of linguistic advocacy. In Palma, speakers emphasized the importance of the Catalan language, describing the refusal to switch languages in daily life as a “democratic act.” Additionally, the Institut d'Estudis Baleàrics utilized the Barcelona book fair to promote Balearic publishing and regional literary creation through dedicated showcases and subsidy programs.

Recent regional events have further reinforced these themes. In Palma, the 37th Setmana del Llibre en Català included an inaugural speech by Carles Rebassa regarding linguistic identity. In Barcelona, the fair featured a book presentation by poet Dolors Miquel, hosted by artist Miquel Barceló. Other regional gatherings continue to support the literary landscape, including the 15th Mercat de Lletres in Igualada, featuring authors such as Francesc Torralba and Care Santos, and the fourth edition of Sant Miquel de les Lletres in Lleida, which provides several days of poetry, oral storytelling, and literary dialogues.