Barcelona's Festa Major is approaching, and this year La Mercè arrives with more activities than ever. Take note of these tips to experience it like a true local, and Hola Barcelona takes you there!
In addition to being a major civic event, Barcelona's Festivity (Festa Major), which this year takes place from Friday, September 20, to Tuesday, September 24, is also a large-scale festival with a multitude of different activities:
- 1. Stroll through the correfocs: one of the most anticipated moments of La Mercè is the correfocs, a Catalan tradition full of light and fire. The "colles de diables" take to the streets with fireworks and sparklers, while people dance and run under the sparks. If you want to enjoy the fire, go with cotton clothing (preferably long-sleeved) and a scarf for protection, and don’t be afraid to join the rhythm of the party!
- 2. Attend the concerts: during La Mercè, Barcelona is filled with live music, with concerts spread throughout the city. Iconic venues like the Parc del Fòrum, the Catedral Avenue, or Bogatell Beach host performances for all tastes, from traditional music to more current acts like Figa Flawas, Buhos, Oques Grasses, Stay Homas, or Els Catarres. Getting a good spot in the crowd and dancing to the music is the best way to connect with the party atmosphere
- 3. Participate in popular activities: the city’s squares and streets fill up with "castellers" (human towers), giants, and "capgrossos" (big-headed figures). The castells are an incredible display of agility, strength, and teamwork, while the giants and "capgrossos" bring the streets to life with their majesty. A true local doesn’t just watch but actively participates, following the parades and cheering on the castellers as they reach their goal.
- 4. Don’t miss the Piromusical: The Piromusical is the grand finale of the festival, a fireworks display set to music that takes place at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. It’s the perfect combination of light, color, and sound that dazzles thousands of people every year. If you want to experience this moment like a local, arrive early to get a good spot and enjoy the best ending to a week of celebrations.
- 5. Enjoy the local cuisine: Don’t resist the good food! Take the opportunity to try some local specialties. You’ll also find street food stalls where you can taste quick bites with a Catalan twist.
- 6. Move like a local: To avoid traffic jams and long queues, public transport is the preferred option for locals during La Mercè. During the festival, metro and bus services have extended hours, so take advantage of this convenience to move from one venue to another without hassle. The Hola Barcelona Travel Card is a very practical option if you plan to use public transport intensively during your stay. This card allows unlimited travel on metro, buses, trams, and trains within Barcelona’s public transport network. You can choose between different durations: 2 days (48 hours), 3 days (72 hours), 4 days (96 hours), or 5 days (120 hours), depending on your needs.
- 7. Be respectful of the environment and community: Barcelonians are very proud of their city and culture, and La Mercè is a time to celebrate it. This means taking care of public spaces, following safety guidelines, and respecting neighbors, especially at night. Enjoy the festival with enthusiasm but also with respect, just like any responsible citizen would.
La Mercè is a unique opportunity to connect with the spirit of Barcelona. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy every moment and feel like a true local, immersed in the magic and tradition of one of Catalonia’s most beloved festivals. Dance, eat, admire the fireworks, and discover the cultural richness of the city..
TMB reinforces and adapts metro and bus schedules to serve both the usual venues and the redistribution and decentralization of spaces planned for the city's Festa Major. So, Hola Barcelona takes you there!
