Festa Major de Gràcia- Amazing Street Party in Barcelona
One of the best things about Spain is the way in which they uphold traditions. This can be seen though their commitment to continuing celebrations and festivals that have been taking place for decades. In a couple of weeks Valencia will be flooded with travellers for the Tomatina (check out our blog post for more details), and just further north of the coastline in Barcelona an equally unique festival will be taking place: The Festa Major de Gràcia.
Each community has their own festival; however attracting an estimated 1.5 million visitors each year, Gràcia’s is arguably the most well-known, popular and successful. During the week of the festival the labyrinth of roads and passageways are transformed into the pages of storybooks as part of the competition to gain the title of ‘most well-decorated street’. Residents work together all year to choose a theme and then create spectacular street designs that need to be seen to be believed. Visitors are able to walk beneath the amazingly creative canopies that dress the district and take in the crazy wonderland that is constructed completely by the passionate people of Gràcia.
Gràcia is very easy to reach from both of our hostels in Barcelona, to book now, click here.
Written By Katie Harvey (Feetup Hostels)
A Festa Major is a community street festival celebrated by residents of a town. It is a typically Catalan celebration and normally includes a diverse programme of concerts, activities and markets. Barcelona was once a much smaller city (now known as the Ciutat Vella or Old City), surrounded by smaller towns, one of these towns being Gràcia. In the 19th century it was decided to expand Barcelona, incorporating these smaller towns to make one big city. Even though now Barcelona is united, the former towns still maintain their identities. Celebrating their individual Festa Majors are one of the ways in which they do this.
The Zombie themed street was my favourite when I went to last years festival!
The street decorating competition is only one part of this festival, if you are fortunate enough to be in Gràcia during this week you will be treated to an array of concerts, markets and traditional activities such as Castelleras which are human towers, some 7 or more people high! All of the events are free and open to everyone: One of the most striking things about this festival is the people, and how everybody, young and old alike enjoy the festivities together. This is a festival that is made by the community for the community (but you are invited to come too!)
Written By Katie Harvey (Feetup Hostels)