Every December, Llinars del Vallès, in Vallès Oriental, welcomes the Christmas season by hosting the Torrons Fair, an event that combines the magic of this time of year with the region’s rich gastronomy and culture. But this fair goes far beyond artisanal “torrons” (nougat confections) and stalls of local producers: it has become an inspiring example of how local events can be sustainable and responsible.

A seal that speaks for itself

The Torrons Fair has obtained the Destination Barcelona Commitment to Sustainable Tourism certification, an international distinction that endorses its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda. For this particular event, it means that the fair works to reduce environmental impact, promote local culture, and foster economic development in an inclusive way.

If we look at how these sustainability practices take shape in specific areas, we find:

  • Responsible production and consumption, thanks to the promotion of local commerce, local products and local crafts.

  • Waste management, through the conscious application of the 3R philosophy (reduce, recycle, reuse), to minimise the waste generated at an event of this kind.

  • Education and awareness-raising, through workshops and activities that convey sustainable values, not only to children but also to adults.

  • Conservation of heritage and biodiversity, by providing information on the area’s natural and cultural wealth and organising activities that highlight local traditions.

  • Social commitment, through proposals for collaboration with local projects aimed at reducing poverty, promoting equality, and ensuring fair working conditions. All of this is strengthened by the organisation’s clear intention to train staff in respecting the environment that surrounds us.

An experience for all the senses

This year, the Llinars Torrons Fair will be held on 6, 7 and 8 December. Christmas sweets will take centre stage: there will be torrons in countless flavours, from the classic Xixona and crème brûlée varieties to the most innovative ones, featuring surprising combinations of ingredients and tastes. All of them can be sampled at the various tastings organised throughout the event.

But the Fair offers much more than gastronomy: visitors will find street performances, family concerts and creative workshops that turn a visit to the town into a complete experience. All this takes place in an environment committed to sustainable mobility, with information on accessible transport and options that are more respectful of the environment.

At a time of heightened environmental awareness and in a context increasingly shaped by climate change, the Torrons Fair shows that it is possible to bring together tradition, local economy and sustainability. Its commitment to the environment and the community makes it a benchmark for other events and shows that celebrating does not have to conflict with caring for the environment and for the people who live and work there.

Want to find out more about the town? www.llinarsdelvalles.cat