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August is coming to a close. It’s the end of those long days without fixed schedules, mornings without alarm clocks and meal sessions that stretch on forever. It’s the end of the season where every day brings new plans. We say goodbye to our summer love and get ready to tackle our daily routine with tears pouring down our face…
But… wait a second. This is the beginning of September! That amazing month jammed-packed with the start of new activities, events that take over our agenda, and new challenges on our horizon. And especially so if Barcelona is your destination!
Barcelona has never heard of the post-vacation blues because September turns the city into an inexhaustible source of celebrations and events worthy of the month of August.
Ready for a non-stop September in Barcelona? Let’s start!
Setmana del llibre en català (Catalan Book Week) – September 4th-13th
Barcelona is and has always been a hotspot for all types of artists and writers. As such, it is the aim of this ten days long rendezvous to get the public up to speed with the best and most recent developments in the Catalan literary scene. With over 125 exhibitors including publishers, bookstores and publishing groups, Catalan Book Week in the Avenida de la Catedral, brings the audience closer to the efforts of writers, editors and libraries that work hard to bring to life the culture of Catalan language in its written form.
You have 10 days to make the most of your visit to the Barcelona Cathedral by exploring this exhibit and soaking up the language of Catalonia.
Tibidabo Live Festival – September 4th– 5th
A novel entry in Barcelona’s September agenda. This year marks the first edition of this music festival that will take place in the Tibidabo amusement park, at the highest point in the city. The experience sounds promising: a day of live alternative music while the rides in the park remain open. That means you’ll be able to experience the thrill of a roller coaster ride with great background music set to it. And to top it all, you’ll have the most amazing views over the city at your feet. I, for one am not going to miss it.
You can find all information about Tibidabo Live Festival tickets here.
The Diada, September 11th
Despite becoming increasingly controversial and carrying a high political load, the celebration of the National Day of Catalonia is a social event that should be witnessed at least once in a lifetime. Catalans from all over the map get together to proclaim their love for their land, and praise and assert their tradition and cultural values. Beyond discussions about the constitution, it is remarkable to see the whole city turn red and yellow, the colors of the Senyera flag, making for a very Catalan festive scene.
Fira de Tàrrega – September 11th – 14th
A favorite with theater, dance, and all performing arts lovers alike. Without a doubt, the best meeting point for artists and cultural programmers, in an atmosphere characterized by its good vibes and overflowing with talent.
Established in 1981, this Fair has become the national stage for Catalonia’s performing arts, with such an intense program that it is almost impossible to pack it all into a mere 3 days. The organizers make the most of the long weekend (September 11th is a holiday in Catalonia) and put forward a program full of shows that fall into a range of categories, with a clear preference for the street arts and the unconventional installations of upcoming artists.
You’ll have to head down to Tàrrega, in the province of Lleida, a two hour drive away from Barcelona. It is advisable to have a look at the event’s website and do some pre-planning regarding what you’d like to see. There are things to please all audiences, depending on your preferences. You can buy your Fira de Tàrrega tickets in advance on their website, or at the ticket counter once you get there.
Mercè Festival – September 18th – 23rd
Another large-scale festival with a marked Catalan flavor. September 24th is Saint Mercè Day, Barcelona’s patron saint, to whom Barcelonans devote a full week of all types of family activities and concerts… but mostly concerts.
The two main attractions of Barcelona’s Mercè Festival are, on the one hand, the extensive musical program organized every year by Barcelona Acció Musical (BAM), with the presence of renowned musicians and emerging talents; and on the other, the popular music and pyrotechnics show that takes place on the very last day of the festival, over the breathtaking Montjuic fountains. Much more than a mere festival.
It’s advisable to get your hands on a program of the festival to not miss out on the countless performances and activities that will take place in Parque de la Ciudadela or in Plaza Sant Jaume, where there will also be castellers, sardanas and Gegants i Capgrossos, as expected.
Fiesta Mayor del Poblenou – September 10th – 20th
The Poblenou neighborhood joins the September festival fever with its streets, public areas, restaurants and community centers also offering a wide array of special activities for the whole family.
Piknic Electronik – Every Sunday through September
Piknic Electronik carries on with their usual Sunday program until September 20th. Located in the old amusement park of Montjuïc (Jardins de Joan Brossa), it has gained renown and popularity as the favorite sunny Sunday plan of Barcelona locals. A large garden, alternative music and your choice of picnic food. You can bring your own food or buy it at any of the stands offering delicacies to please all palates.
You know, grab a large pareo or tablecloth, a straw basket, sunglasses and make the best of a unique and lovely afternoon outdoors. The garden opens its doors from 1pm to 10pm, with music playing non-stop until 9pm when it quiets down, so you can enjoy the sunset in silence.
You’ll find all details on how to reach Barcelona’s Picnik Electronik on their own website.
September Concerts in Barcelona
And if all that wasn’t enough, rest assured that Barcelona’s cultural program never runs dry. As such, there is always something worth watching at the Palau Sant Jordi. So feel free to join any of these plans as well:
- Maná live at the Palau Sant Jordi (September 6th)
- Miguel Bosé live at the Palau Sant Jordi (September 9th)
- Alejandro Sanz live at the Palau Sant Jordi (September 16th & 17th)
