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September is the Catalan month of the calendar. Between September 11 and “la Mercè” (September 24), locals take to the streets to fight their post-holiday depression with parties and concerts.
“La Mercè” is the star of these celebrations. As the feast day of the patron saint of Barcelona, it has been held since 1902 and considered year after year to be the best summer farewell party.
With a program of activities ranging from children´s workshops, parades of the big heads and giants, correfocs (“fire runs”), concerts for all tastes and, of course, the famous human towers, this festival manages to keep alive Catalan tradition while also showcasing the cosmopolitan and intercultural potential of the capital of Catalonia.
Here are some of the activities you shouldn’t miss at the 2014 Mercè:
Free concerts: The city is filled with settings, and a variety of artists are invited to liven up these festive nights. The main locations for this year include: the Joan Corominas plaza, the Moll de la Fusta, the Fòrum, the Plaça dels Angels and the Antigua Fábrica Damm (a former factory), where you can enjoy the performances of Mishima, Flamingo Tours, SR.WILSON & The Blackstarliners, Mariam the Believer orKlaxons, among others. You can find the entire program and the detailed schedule here: http://www.bcn.cat/bam/ca/index.html
Street art: The Festival Mercè Arts de Carrer (MAC) is a great opportunity to discover new talent and original ideas in the field of dance, theater and circus arts. There are three main stages: the Ciudadela Park, Montjuic Castle and the Albéniz palace, where several technological shows will also take place.
Kids activities: Children are definitely the stars of this party, which is why so many initiatives focus on them. Craft workshops, face painting, storytelling, clown shows, etc.
Authentic tradition: Beyond the concerts and cultural activities, what really makes the Mercè holiday unique and unforgettable are the more traditional events. Don’t miss the famous Correfoc (which are not advisable for those with a fear of fire), the parade of giants and big heads, the castellers (human towers) or the pyrotechnic shows in the Fountain of Montjuic.
Monica Boixeda
Don´t hesitate any longer. Book your accommodations in Barcelona for September and join in this Catalan party.
