What Is Merce Festival Barcelona?

By Anna Duncan

The Merce Festival Barcelona is one of the most popular and vibrant festivals celebrated in the city of Barcelona, Spain. This annual festival takes place in honor of the patron saint of Barcelona, La Mercè, and attracts thousands of locals and tourists from all around the world. It is a week-long event filled with music, dance, fireworks, parades, and many other cultural activities.

History

The festival dates back to 1871 when it was first celebrated to honor the Virgin Mary of Grace (Mare de Déu de la Mercè) for protecting Barcelona during a plague. Over time, the festival evolved into a celebration of Catalan culture and traditions.

Activities and Events

The Merce Festival offers a wide range of activities for people of all ages. Here are some highlights:

Concerts

One of the main attractions of the festival is its live music concerts. Various stages are set up across the city where renowned local and international artists perform different genres such as rock, pop, jazz, classical music, and more. These concerts are usually free to attend and create an electrifying atmosphere throughout the city.

Correfoc

The Correfoc is a mesmerizing fire parade where participants dress up as devils and dragons. They carry fire-spitting dragons and dance through the streets while fireworks light up the sky. This thrilling event showcases the Catalan tradition in a spectacular way.

Gegants

Gegants are giant figures made out of wood, cork, cardboard or papier-mâché that represent historical characters or mythological beings. During the Merce Festival, these giants parade through the streets accompanied by traditional music bands creating a joyful ambiance.

Castellers

Castellers are human towers built by teams of people who climb on top of each other to form impressive structures. The Castellers’ performances are a traditional Catalan spectacle that requires strength, balance, and teamwork. The Merce Festival hosts competitions where different teams showcase their skills in constructing the tallest and most stable human towers.

Conclusion

The Merce Festival Barcelona is a must-visit event for anyone who wants to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Catalonia. From the lively music concerts to the breathtaking parades, this festival offers a unique and unforgettable experience. So mark your calendars and join in the celebration of La Mercè!