If you are planning a visit to Barcelona and its surroundings, a world of exciting popular festivals and activities in Barcelona awaits you, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich Catalan culture.
From the bustling district festivals in Barcelona to unique celebrations in nearby cities, there is something for every taste and preference. If you are looking for temporary accommodation in the area, you will find a wide variety of options on ShBarcelona to make your stay unforgettable.
Table of Contents
16 Popular Festivals and Activities in Barcelona and surroundings
District Festivals
The district festivals in Barcelona are iconic, must-attend events. Among the most notable are Gràcia and Sants, and these are the ones we recommend the most.
During these festivities, neighborhoods come alive with colorful decorations and cultural activities such as concerts, parades, and street decoration competitions.
Sant Jordi
In spring, on April 23rd, Sant Jordi’s Day is celebrated, a very original and special day in Catalonia, similar to Valentine’s Day, where couples exchange roses and books. If you decide to visit Barcelona during these days, you can participate in this charming tradition.
La Mercè
La Mercè is the main celebration in Barcelona, held every year around September 24th. It lasts about a week and takes place in public spaces throughout the city. Various cultural and festive activities, such as concerts in different locations, are held. One of the highlights of the celebration is usually a fireworks show which lights up the night sky.
Pyrotechnic show of Mercè Festival
New Year’s Eve on Montjuic and the Midnight Chimes
Barcelona offers an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration on Montjuic, with light shows and live music captivating attendees. Just before midnight, the chimes are broadcast live from Plaça d’Espanya. For an even more spectacular experience, consider renting accommodation with a view of Montjuic to enjoy the fireworks.
San Juan
The night of San Juan is one of the most anticipated festivities in Barcelona. Each year, on the beach of La Barceloneta, bonfires are lit and parties are celebrated until the early hours of the morning.
Llums de Nadal
During the Christmas season, Barcelona lights up with Llums de Nadal (Christmas Lights), and Passeig de Gràcia becomes a stunning spectacle of lights and decorations. The magic of the season is evident in every corner of the city.
Find temporary accommodation in Barcelona here
Llums de Poblenou
Another must-see place to enjoy the lights is the Poblenou neighborhood. Every February, different installations illuminate the streets of Poblenou with lights and projections, creating an impressive visual show.
Carnival
The Sitges Carnival is famous worldwide for its extravagance and fun. This vibrant and colorful celebration attracts the attention with the spectacular costumes, parades, floats, and traditional activities. If you’re looking for a festive atmosphere, we recommend renting one of our temporary homes in Sitges to enjoy and have a good time.
Temps de Flors in Girona
Very close to Barcelona by train, you can reach Girona. This city hosts the beautiful Temps de Flors festival, transforming it into an impressive garden of flowers. Explore it while enjoying this very unique floral exhibition.
Santa María’s Cathedral decorated with flowers
Pride BCN
Pride Barcelona is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in Europe. If you plan to attend, consider preparing your trip in advance, because people from all around the world wants to be part of this celebration.
Diada de Catalunya
Diada de Catalunya is Catalonia’s National Day celebrated on September 11th. During this festival, the city is filled with civic and cultural events commemorating Catalan independence, making floral offerings to monuments of Rafael Casanova and Josep Moragues.
La Patum de Berga
La Patum de Berga is a traditional celebration in the city of Berga, near Barcelona, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Renting a house in Berga will allow you to be inspired by this impressive festival.
Related Article: How to Get Around Barcelona: Your Transportation Guide
Castañada
La Castañada is one of the most traditional autumn celebrations in Catalonia. You can find delicious panellets (traditional pastries) and chestnuts in local markets and bakeries during this season.
Christmas
Christmas in Barcelona is magical, with festivities including the tradition of the tió de Nadal (Christmas log) and the arrival of the Three Wise Men. Rent an apartment in the city center and enjoy all the Christmas festivities Barcelona has to offer.
Christmas lights in Passeig de Gràcia. Photo via Unsplash
Feria de Abril
Although more recognized in Seville and other places in Andalusia, Barcelona also celebrates its own Feria de Abril with casetas (marquee tents), flamenco dances, and traditional activities. The Andalusian community and its descendants have contributed to creating an incredible celebration in the city.
Cinema a la Fresca
During the hot summer months, many parks and squares in Barcelona offer outdoor movie screenings. Finding rental accommodation near one of these places will allow you to enjoy a unique cinematic experience under the stars.
The city and its surroundings offer a wide variety of popular festivals and activities throughout the year. Whether you prefer the excitement of the streets and neighborhoods, the beauty of the flowers in Girona, or the magic of the Christmas festivities, with ShBarcelona, you will find options for temporary or tourist rentals to make your stay memorable.
Leave a Comment