Local festivals and popular culture

Living in Barcelona and taking part in local festivals enables you to discover local culture and, for example, castellers (impressive human tower makers), correfocs (fire-runs made up of “demons” and fire-breathing “dragons”) and the sardana (Catalonia's most famous traditional dance).

Not every celebration is a festival day. The most typical example is Sant Jordi Day (St George's Day), held on 23 April, which is a very special and popular day dedicated to books, roses and culture.

Another very popular celebration is revetlla de Sant Joan (St John's Eve), the night of 23 June, coinciding with the arrival of the summer. This is a night of bonfires and fireworks.

Another festival of Barcelona’s not to be missed and dedicated to its other co-patron saint, La Mercè, starts on 24 September. It features numerous free festival and cultural activities in every district. 

The end of the year sees the arrival of the Christmas traditions, where children are the central players. We invite you to discover the tió de Nadal and other special features of these dates.

Find out more about local culture on Popular Culture.