Catalan-style celebrations
The Catalan culture is expressed most strongly during the many folk festivals held in Barcelona. Fireworks light up the night sky so often it seems as if thereâs always something to celebrate. Most festivals were originally in honour of the patron saints of Barcelona or Catalonia. Thousands of people take to the streets during processions, either in traditional costumes or with features that recall ancient rituals.
La MercĂš: a fiery festival
The La MercĂš festival takes place every September and is Barcelonaâs biggest street festival. Barcelonans spend almost a week honouring their cityâs most important patron saint, Mare de Deu de La MercĂš, in the form of parades, music and dance. In this way, Catalans say goodbye to summer and welcome autumn with a bang. Donât be afraid of the horned demons that run through Barcelonaâs streets spouting fire. This is the correfoc, a typical Catalan tradition meant to drive away evil spirits.
The feast of Sant Joan
On 23 June, Catalans celebrate the feast of Sant Joan (Saint John), which begins at sunset. The Nit de Sant Joan is the shortest night of the year and doesnât involve much sleeping. The Barcelona bonfires attract a lot of attention but the real party takes place on the beaches. Find a good spot in the sand with a picnic basket and a bottle of cava, and look on as hordes of Barcelonans run into the sea. Many people believe that Saint John (the Baptist) endows the seawater with healing powers on this night.
Love and literature for Sant Jordi
On 23 April, Catalans celebrate Sant Jordi (Saint George) who, according to legend, slew the dragon on this day and returned to his sweetheart with a rose. By tradition men give their loved one a red rose on this day, to which they respond with the gift of a book. The flowers and books can be bought at one of the hundreds of stalls along La Rambla or the many other streets of Barcelona. Itâs one big party; young and old dance the sardana on Plaça de Sant Jaume and poets recite their work in cafĂ©s. Whether or not youâre in love, a stroll through Barcelona on this day â which is also World Book Day â is guaranteed to give you the spring jitters.
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