1991 – The Origins

Mr. Salvadó, president of the Royal Barcelona-Sabadell Aeroclub for radio-controlled flight, proposed a small airshow featuring scale model aircraft as part of the city’s local festivities. The public response was so enthusiastic that, the following year, the event expanded to include real aircraft, thanks to the collaboration of the Barcelona-Sabadell Aeroclub.

This marked the birth of Festa al Cel as a public air display, which grew steadily over the years with the participation of the Spanish Air Force, Navy, and Army, as well as companies from the aerospace industry, aerobatic champions, and both civilian and military international teams.

1992 – The festival takes on an institutional form

Festa al Cel becomes an official Air Festival, jointly organized by the Barcelona City Council and the Barcelona-Sabadell Aeroclub.

2006 – A historic year for aviation in Barcelona

In the same year, the city hosts two top-tier aviation events: the Red Bull Air Race in April and Festa al Cel in September. Public attendance and media coverage exceed all expectations.

2008 – A new institutional phase

Festa al Cel comes under the management of the Department of Strategic Sectors within the Economic Development, Business and Employment Area of the Barcelona City Council, aiming to position the festival as a key showcase for the aerospace industry.

2009 – Red Bull Air Race within Festa al Cel

The Red Bull Air Race returns to Barcelona, this time as the main attraction of Festa al Cel. For two days, the city experiences an unforgettable aerial spectacle.

2011 – 20 years of Festa al Cel

With two decades of history, Festa al Cel establishes itself as the most important air festival in Spain and one of the few held by the sea in a major European city.

2013 – Cancellation due to airspace restrictions

The 2013 edition is cancelled due to issues related to the airspace of El Prat Airport. The organizers begin searching for new locations.

2014 – A new chapter in Mataró

Festa al Cel moves to Mataró, to the beaches of Maresme, maintaining a high level of participation and audience attendance.

2017 – Move to Lleida-Alguaire Airport

After attempts to hold the festival in Santa Susanna, it was decided to move it to Lleida-Alguaire Airport, featuring a new format and increased operational capacity.

2020 – Indefinite pause and impact of COVID-19

After the 2019 edition in Lleida, the COVID-19 pandemic completely prevented the event from taking place due to health and airspace restrictions.

2025 – A new chapter in Salou: The sky shines again

After a break, Festa al Cel takes flight again in 2025 with a new luxury location: Salou, in the heart of the Costa Dorada. An incomparable setting, with wide south-facing beaches that allow for flights without backlight and excellent visibility from any point on the promenade.

The new format includes aerial displays at different time slots over three consecutive days, as well as a special evening program with the Sunset Airshow, taking advantage of the colorful horizon to offer a magical show of aerobatics, lights, and integrated pyrotechnics.

With a privileged location, family-friendly services, and a strong tourism tradition, Salou becomes the ideal setting for the return of one of southern Europe’s most beloved air festivals.