This post may contain affiliate links.
La Mercè is Barcelona’s largest annual festival, celebrated around September 24th in honor of the city’s patron saint, Our Lady of Mercy (La Mare de Déu de la Mercè). First officially recognized in 1871, this week-long celebration transforms the city into a grand stage for Catalan culture, with street parades, concerts, traditional dances, castellers, and fireworks. Blending centuries-old traditions with contemporary art and music, La Mercè draws hundreds of thousands of visitors and offers a lively program reflecting the creative energy and pride of Barcelona.
History of the Festival
Legend has it that on the night of September 24, 1218, the Virgin of Mercy appeared to King Jaume I, Saint Pere Nolasc, and Saint Ramón de Penyafort, asking them to found an order to rescue Christians held captive by the Saracens during the religious wars. Centuries later, in 1687, Barcelona was struck by a locust plague and turned to the Virgin for protection. After the city was spared, she was declared its patron saint, a title officially confirmed by the Pope in 1868.
The modern celebration began in 1871 and gained key traditions in 1902, such as the giants and Sardana dance. Today, La Mercè blends Catalan heritage with contemporary culture in a multi-day event centered around September 24th.
Human Towers (Castellers)
Among the most breathtaking traditions of La Mercè are the castells. The towering human structures can reach up to ten stories high and symbolize unity, courage, and community. The participants, known as castellers, rely on incredible strength, balance, and coordination. Often performed in Plaça de Sant Jaume, the spectacle culminates with the youngest, lightest team members climbing to the top.
Giants Parade (Gegants i Capgrossos)
***
La Cavalcada de Gegants de la Mercè (the Parade of Giants) is one of the main events of the festival. Towering papier-mâché giants representing kings, queens, mythical creatures, and local legends, dance through Barcelona’s streets. Accompanied by lively music and the playful capgrossos (big heads), these colorful parades are among the festival’s most beloved traditions.
Sardana Dancing
***
The Sardana is a traditional circle dance, originally from the Empordà region, that became popular throughout Catalonia during the 20th century. Dancers join hands in a closed circle, moving in synchronized short and long steps to the melodies of a cobla, a traditional Catalan wind and brass ensemble. Often performed during La Mercè in plazas like Plaça Nova and Plaça Sant Jaume, the Sardana invites people of all ages and backgrounds to participate.
Fire Runs (Correfocs)
The correfoc is a fiery parade where costumed devils dash through the streets with fireworks, sparklers, and fire-breathing dragons. The devils are accompanied by drummers, adding rhythm to the electrifying atmosphere. Sparks fly as crowds line the streets to watch the revelry.
Practical Details
La Mercè transforms Barcelona’s city center into a lively stage for concerts, parades, and cultural events. Key locations include Plaça Sant Jaume, Plaça de la Catedral, and Las Ramblas. With nearly 2 million attendees, it’s best to plan ahead, arrive early for popular events, and book hotels in advance.
Public transport hours are extended during the festival, making it easy to get around. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and wear appropriate clothes. Long sleeves are recommended for the correfoc. The official La Mercè app, available in multiple languages, offers real-time schedules and event locations to help you make the most of the celebration.