Salinas is preparing for a summer highlight in the Aviles region as August 11 and 12 approach. The Agüil forest, a setting where nature partners with music under evocative lighting, will host a fresh edition of Songs for an Ewan Day. This festival stands out for its creator’s personal commitment to nurturing emerging talent, offering a free entertainment program that breaks away from the typical festival format.
Upcoming acts include singer-songwriter Smile Noan, Maximiliano Calvo, Ramón Mirabet, and Julia Narr. Joining them, the festival will feature La La I Love You, a punk-pop band from Parla, known for catchy choruses and lively rhythms. The group’s lineup includes Roberto Amor on vocals and guitar, David Merino on vocals and guitar, Lydia Carré on vocals and bass, and Oscar Hoyos on drums. Earlier this year, Lydia Carré joined the band replacing Celia Becks, and she will perform at Songs for an Ewan Day in Salinas this August. The organizers emphasize maintaining the boutique festival vibe, choosing a more intimate setting over a generic resort experience, a sentiment echoed by Juan Luis Suárez, a former student of that ethos.
The festival continues to blend rising voices with established acts, enriching the program with diverse flavors. One highlight is daconte baby, a blend of classic pop and rock that speaks to themes of love, loneliness, and the pursuit of ideals through simple, sincere melodies. Daconte began as a Madrid-Barcelona duo in 2005, with Mai Meneses and Kim Fanlo. After Mai Meneses left the group in 2010, the band continued under the same name as a solo project for Meneses. For this edition, the lineup also features Paula Koops and Alex Wall, ensuring a wide spectrum of artistry. Alongside the music, the festival offers outdoor yoga sessions led by Betty Ewan and paddleboarding with professional athlete Alazne Aurrekoetxea, enhancing the overall experience. Once again, Mahou Cinco Estrellas supports the event through Vibra Mahou, underscoring a sustained commitment to music with a regional focus and vibrant live performances.
The organizers highlight that the event uniquely blends music, sport, and gastronomy in a single, enchanted setting that appeals to first-time visitors and returning guests alike. The belief is that Songs for an Ewan Day is among the most charming and meaningful celebrations in Europe, a sentiment echoed by many attendees who return year after year with family and friends to relive the warm atmosphere and memorable experiences. Both attendees and artists are invited to connect with the spirit of the weekend, creating a shared sense of community and joy.
In a bid to enhance sustainability, the festival has introduced energy-conscious initiatives. Repsol will support a program of actions focused on energy production and use to minimize emissions at the venue. Light installations along the forest path illuminate the journey to the natural amphitheater that serves as the stage, creating a magical approach to the performance space. When it comes time to refuel, a food truck zone offers a wide range of options to satisfy diverse tastes, including Mexican, Asian, traditional dishes, desserts, and gluten-free, vegan choices. The aim is to provide an inclusive culinary experience that complements the musical lineup and the scenic setting while keeping the footprint light and respectful of the locale.