When summer arrives, Barcelona’s neighbourhoods transform: the streets are decorated, the squares fill with music, and local life bursts outdoors to celebrate what is arguably the city’s most vibrant and beloved tradition — the festa major. Want to discover them? Hola Barcelona takes you there!
These celebrations are much more than music and fireworks — they’re about community, creativity, and cultural identity. If you’re in Barcelona during the summer months, here are the three must-see festivals you shouldn’t miss.
Festa Major de Gràcia
August 15 to 21, 202- Gràcia’s festa major is probably the best-known and most eagerly awaited. For a whole week, this historic neighbourhood comes alive with streets decorated by hand by local residents, who compete for the prize for the best design. Each street chooses a theme — from fantasy worlds to cultural tributes — and the result is a true open-air exhibition of popular art.
But there’s more to Gràcia than just decoration: the festival features over 900 activities, including concerts, workshops, human towers (castellers), fire runs (correfocs), outdoor cinema, and family-friendly events. It’s a unique opportunity to experience Barcelona in a local, lively, and participative way.
Festa Major de Sants
August 23 to 31, 2025- Right after Gràcia, it’s Sants’ turn — a festival with the same strong community spirit, but a slightly more relaxed and family-oriented vibe. The streets are also decorated — less extravagant, but full of character — and the programme features a mix of traditional and modern festivities: parades, fire runs, folk dancing, sardanes and free open-air concerts.
This year, one of the highlights is the decoration of Carrer Sagunt, which will pay tribute to the 100th anniversary of the Barcelona Metro with a creative theme recreating iconic stations in a festive format. A fun and original way to connect history, transport, and neighbourhood pride.
La Mercè — Barcelona’s Grand Festival
September 23 to 28, 2025- La Mercè is Barcelona’s biggest festival, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. More than just a local celebration, it’s a city-wide explosion of traditional and contemporary culture across all districts.
The programme includes:
- Opening speech by Emma Vilarassau
- Street performances (MAC Festival)
- Free concerts on multiple stages (BAM and Música Mercè)
- Castellers, fire runs, giants and mythical creatures
- Fireworks and the spectacular Piromusical at Montjuïc
La Mercè is the perfect time to enjoy the city with fresh eyes and discover everything from its oldest traditions to its most cutting-edge art.
Barcelona in summer means celebration, community and culture. Whether you're a local or just visiting, let yourself be swept up by the music, the lights, the decorations and the warm atmosphere of these unique celebrations. Are you in?
Don’t forget to check our transport recommendations! We suggest using the metro network to get around quickly and easily to each festival location. Travel with your Hola Barcelona Travel Card and enjoy unlimited rides while exploring the city’s festive spirit.
