Barcelona’s main festivals, and especially La Mercè, are the perfect moment to discover some of the most deeply rooted Catalan traditions. Ready to dive in? Hola Barcelona takes you there!
From 23 to 28 September, Barcelona celebrates its great festival in honor of the Virgin of La Mercè, patron saint of the city. Six days filled with concerts, street performances, fireworks, popular culture and activities for all ages will transform the city into a huge festive stage.
What you can’t miss this year
Like every edition, La Mercè comes with a wide and varied program. Among the most emblematic events are:
- The opening speech (Pregó), which officially kicks off the festival. This year it will be delivered by actress Emma Vilarasau, one of the great ladies of Catalan theatre.
- Live music, with more than 100 free concerts as part of BAM – Barcelona Acció Musical and Música Mercè, spread across stages throughout the city, from Plaça Catalunya to Bogatell beach.
- The Piromusical, the grand firework and music show on Avinguda Reina Maria Cristina, which in 2025 will be dedicated to Estopa.
- Museums and historic buildings open for free, so culture is also part of the celebration.
- The guest city, which this year is Manchester, bringing its creative spirit and urban music to Barcelona.
Popular culture in the streets
La Mercè is also a celebration of Catalan traditions. Giants and big-heads (gegants i capgrossos) parade through the streets, and three great icons of popular culture take center stage:
- Castellers: human towers that can reach up to ten stories high, symbols of teamwork and recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
- Correfocs: devils and fire beasts fill the night with sparks and drums, an experience as intense as it is unforgettable (remember to wear long sleeves and a scarf!).
- Sardanes: the traditional Catalan dance, forming open and welcoming circles in squares and streets, accompanied by the music of the cobla.
Food and life outdoors
These days are also about good food and drink: the Terra i Gust festival promotes sustainable cuisine and local products, while terraces and squares across the city are buzzing with vermouths, long sobremesas and shared meals.
And if you want to live Barcelona like a local, skip brunch and try a fork breakfast, a hearty traditional meal that is part of Catalonia’s culinary identity.
A festival open to everyone
La Mercè is, above all, a civic gathering point. With family activities, international shows, concerts for all tastes and centuries-old traditions that continue to evolve, Barcelona’s main festival keeps the community and popular spirit alive. And if you’re looking for a family plan, why not fly over the city on the Montjuïc Cable Car? It’s a perfect activity during these festive days!
From 23 to 28 September, Barcelona beats to the rhythm of La Mercè. Tradition, music, fire and popular culture fill the streets. Come and experience it like a true local. Plan your itinerary to reach all the venues by public transport and get around with your Hola Barcelona Travel Card.
Metro services will be reinforced, running non-stop from 5:00 am on 23 September until midnight on 24 September, and again from 5:00 am on Friday 26 September until midnight on 28 September.
We recommend using the metro for travelling around the city center and to the areas where the main activities take place. And don’t forget: Hola Barcelona takes you there!
