La Mercè - A Street Festival that Tops all Others

Every September, the people of Barcelona gather together to celebrate the day of their Patron Saint the Mare de Deu de la Mercè. However, in true Spanish style, the celebrations do not just take place on one particular day; they start nearly a week before and the atmosphere builds until the 24th when events reach a pinnacle with an incredible fireworks display.

This is festival which combines tradition with creativity leaves its 2 million visitors awe struck every year with breath-taking performances that are all completely free. As you walk through the streets you will see stages and performance areas exhibiting everything from acrobatics to rock bands. This is really a carnival representing all that is great in Barcelona, showcasing talent through art, theatre, music and dance: You are guaranteed to find something that amazes you.

Every year new talent is a huge feature of these events. That being said, the organisers never lose sight of the traditional elements of this festival that has been taking place officially since 1902. Visitors will be treated to the classic Castellers, human towers which reach the height of a two story building; and the Sardanes, a historic dance performed in front of the cathedral. There will also be a parade of Giants; huge sculptures of Kings, Queens and noblemen that march through the streets accompanied by a small percussion band, this is a favourite amongst the residents of Barcelona and it attracts people of all ages. Finally an event that has been taking place for decades, is the Correfoc (Catalan for fire run), an affair that is not for the faint hearted! This tradition is essentially people disguised as devils darting through the streets with hand held fireworks and sparkler fountains which they spray in to the crowds! Accompanying the event, there are even fire breathing dragons: For me this is a unique Catalan custom that should be experienced by everyone (providing you are wearing clothes that can uphold a few sparks)!

La Mercè is at the peak of Barcelonas Event Calendar and so the metro will be open all night making moving around the city incredibly easy and cheap. This year the event takes place between the 18th and 24th of September, make sure you organise your accommodation early as this is an event that attracts visitors from all over the world. Feetup Hostels have two great hostels in Barcelona, book by clicking here!

Written By Katie Harvey (Feetup Hostels)