Every September, Barcelona bursts into life during La Mercè, its most spectacular city festival, Barcelona’s most popular festival and one of the most celebrated events in the city, a celebration of music, lights, dance, tradition, and community.
From September 20 to 24, 2026, the city will transform into a massive open-air stage, with hundreds of free events unfolding across its streets, plazas, and even its beaches. It’s a true Festa Major (major feast) (Barcelona’s Festa Major) in honor of Barcelona’s patron saint, drawing close to two million people to enjoy around 600 cultural events, all of which are completely free.
And with SHIP, the Spanish Homestay Immersion Program, you’ll have the chance to live La Mercè like a local. Stay with a welcoming Spanish family, improve your language skills, and be part of Barcelona’s most exciting cultural experience, not just as a visitor but as an adopted Barceloní for the week. The entire week is filled with festivities and cultural events, making it a unique opportunity to experience the celebrated atmosphere of the city.
“La Mercè” means “mercy” in Catalan, symbolizing protection and gratitude to the Virgin Mary.
Introduction to La Mercè
Every September, Barcelona explodes with color, music, and tradition during La Mercè, the city’s most beloved and anticipated festival. Known locally as the Festes de la Mercè, this main festival honors the patron saint of Barcelona, La Mercè, and transforms the city into a vibrant stage for culture, creativity, and community spirit.
The La Mercè festival is a true celebration of Barcelona’s identity, weaving together centuries-old traditions and modern flair. From the 22nd to the 25th of September, with the 24th as the official city holiday, the city centre comes alive with a whirlwind of festivities. Streets and squares like La Rambla, Plaça Sant Jaume, and Plaça de Sant Jaume become the heart of the action, hosting everything from the breathtaking human towers (castells) to the lively Galop de la Mercè, a unique dance performed in the very square where the festival’s roots run deep.
La Mercè’s origins are steeped in legend and gratitude. In 1687, after the city was delivered from a devastating plague, the city council declared the Virgin of Mercy, Déu de la Mercè, the patron saint of Barcelona. The story goes back even further, to the days of King James I, Saint Peter Nolasco, and Saint Raymond, who, inspired by a vision of the Virgin, set out to rescue Christian monks held captive during the religious wars. These tales of mercy and resilience are at the heart of the festival, and the Servei de Festes has worked tirelessly over the years to preserve these cherished traditions.
Today, the La Mercè festivities are a dazzling showcase of Barcelona’s culture. The festival features many events and traditional activities: from the pulse-pounding fire runs (correfoc) and spectacular fireworks that light up the night sky, to free concerts, música mercè performances, and street arts that fill every corner of the city. The Mercè festival is also famous for its street performances, parades, and the joyful participation of locals and visitors alike.
La Mercè 2026 promises to be more exciting than ever, with a special guest city, a rich program from Barcelona Acció Musical, and a lineup of music, dance, and cultural events that highlight the city’s creative energy. Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of the fire-breathing dragons, the rhythm of the sardana groups, or the magic of the fireworks finale, this popular festival offers something for everyone.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to experience Barcelona’s culture, music, and traditions, mark your calendar for La Mercè 2026. Join the city as it celebrates its patron saint, and become part of one of Europe’s most spectacular and colourful festivals. The most anticipated events of the year await. Are you ready to dive into the magic of La Mercè?
A Journey Through Time: The History of Festes de La Mercè
La Mercè’s story is rooted in legend. On the night of September 24, 1218, as religious wars raged, the Virgin of Mercy (Mare de Déu de la Mercè) is said to have appeared to King Jaume I (James I of Aragon), Saint Peter Nolasco (Patron saint of La Mercè), and Saint Raymond of Penyafort. She instructed these three to found a sacred order of monks dedicated to rescuing Christian captives held by the Saracens. This miracle laid the spiritual groundwork for the city’s special devotion to Our Lady of Mercy. According to tradition, mercy appeared to the city’s leaders during times of crisis, reinforcing the miraculous nature of these events.
Centuries later, in 1687, Barcelona was struck by a devastating plague of locusts. Desperate for help, the city’s governing council (Consell de Cent) turned to the Virgin of Mercy in prayer. When the plague finally subsided, the City Council named the Virgin patron saint of Barcelona in thanks for her “mercy.” (This local decision was officially endorsed two centuries later by Pope Pius IX in 1868, formally declaring La Mercè the patron saint of the city.) From that point on, Barcelona began honoring her with an annual celebration. While La Mercè is a public holiday in Barcelona, some nearby cities such as Badalona and L’Hospitalet may also observe it depending on the calendar.
In 1871, the first La Mercè festival as we know it took place, after the city organized a public feast day with special events for locals. Over time, what started as a religious holiday evolved into one of Europe’s most vibrant urban festivals. Today, La Mercè is Barcelona’s festa major, or main city festival, celebrating community spirit and Catalan culture. It has endured wars and regime changes, but each year around September 24th, the city comes alive again to pay tribute to “La Mercè” in a grand, joyous way.
(Did You Know? The festival’s name “La Mercè” translates to “mercy” in Catalan – a nod to the Virgin’s protection and the gratitude of Barcelona’s citizens.)
Must-See La Mercè Celebrations
La Mercè is a colourful festival which is a perfect mix of history, culture, and creativity. It honors age-old Catalan traditions while adding fresh energy each year. Here are some of the festival’s most unforgettable highlights that you won’t want to miss: Below are some La Mercè festivities that you should never miss: The main events take place at the main sites across the city, showcasing the festival’s most iconic traditions. The festival also features its own dance, created specifically for La Mercè, as a unique example of its cultural expressions.
Castellers – The Human Towers:
In Plaça de Sant Jaume (the plaza between City Hall and the Catalan government palace), teams of men, women, and even children climb onto each other’s shoulders to build astonishing human towers called castells. These towers can rise up to ten meters high, sometimes eight or more people standing tier upon tier. It’s a breathtaking display of balance, trust, and teamwork – UNESCO-recognized for its cultural significance.
Many of La Mercè’s most iconic traditions, such as the Castellers and the Galop de la Mercè, take place in the same square, making it the heart of the festival. The crowd holds its breath as the tiniest team member (the enxaneta, often a young child wearing a helmet) scrambles to the very top and raises a hand in salute, completing the human “castle.” The Castellers exemplify community spirit, and seeing them rise (and sometimes wobble or collapse!) is a goosebump-inducing moment that truly embodies La Mercè’s motto of strength in unity.
Correfoc – The Fire Run:
As dusk falls, the festival really heats up – literally. The Correfoc (Catalan for “fire-run”) is one of La Mercè’s most thrilling traditions. In this high-adrenaline parade, costumed devils and demons dance through the streets, wielding pitchforks loaded with spinning fireworks.
They charge down the route amid a spectacular shower of sparks, accompanied by the pounding of drums and the cheers (and screams) of onlookers. You’ll even see giant fire-breathing dragon figures (known as bestiari de foc) joining the fray, spewing sparks into the sky. It’s loud, chaotic, and absolutely exhilarating – a celebration of Barcelona’s wild side.
Gegants i Capgrossos – Giant Parades:
By day, the streets of the Old City fill with whimsy and color thanks to the gegants i capgrossos (giants and big-heads). These are towering papier-mâché figures, kings, queens, nobles, and mythical characters, some over 3 meters tall, carried by performers hidden underneath. The giants sway and dance through the Gothic Quarter and along Las Ramblas, often accompanied by bands of flabiol flutes and drummers.
Alongside them march the capgrossos, characters with oversized heads wobbling comically. It’s a beloved, family-friendly spectacle that has kids and adults alike gazing upward in delight. The Giant Parade harks back to medieval celebrations and adds a dose of fairy-tale magic to La Mercè’s atmosphere.
Live Music and Street Arts (BAM Festival):
La Mercè is also a massive music festival. BAM (Barcelona Acció Musical) and Música Mercè bring hundreds of free concerts to stages citywide, spanning genres from indie and rock to jazz, classical, and traditional Catalan tunes. International and local artists alike fill Barcelona with non-stop sound and energy late into the night. Stroll through Plaça Catalunya, Parc de la Ciutadella, or down by the Moll de la Fusta waterfront, and you might encounter an open-air jazz ensemble, a cutting-edge DJ set, or a spontaneous street dance performance. The city becomes an endless concert, and all you need to do is follow your ears. Beyond music, you’ll find street theater, circus acts, and dance shows (part of Mercè Arts de Carrer) popping up in parks and plazas – all showcasing Barcelona’s creative flair. In short, during La Mercè the entire city becomes a stage, and everyone’s invited to watch or join in.
(And that’s not all – from the graceful Sardana circle dances to the quirky Galop de la Mercè (a fast-paced folk dance composed exclusively for this festival), there’s always another cultural surprise around the corner. The Galop de la Mercè was composed by Jesús Ventura i Barnet specifically to honor Barcelona’s patron saint, highlighting how the festival celebrates local traditions and the city’s cultural identity. La Mercè’s traditions run deep, ensuring each moment of the week is filled with Catalan pride and spectacle.)
Festival Highlights 2026
What’s on the agenda for La Mercè 2026? Mark your calendar and get ready for an unforgettable week. Here are the key details and events to look forward to:
Dates: September 20–24, 2026
Festivities kick off Friday and culminate on Wednesday, Sept 24, the feast day of La Mercè. Expect five days of continuous celebrations from morning until well past midnight. September 24th is a local public holiday, so the grand finale will happen that evening when everyone can attend.
Where: All over Barcelona.
The beauty of La Mercè is that it’s truly citywide. The Gothic Quarter hosts many traditional events (like the opening parade and daily folk performances in Plaça de Sant Jaume). The city centre squares – Plaça de Catalunya, Plaça Reial, Plaça Sant Jaume – buzz with concerts and gatherings. Large parks and avenues become venues too: Parc de la Ciutadella turns into an arts and circus hub, Montjuïc Hill features big shows, and even the beaches (such as Bogatell and Barceloneta) join in with music stages or fireworks viewing areas. Bogatell Beach is a main site for outdoor concerts and open-air music festivals, attracting both local and international artists, while Barceloneta Beach is a prime location for spectacular fireworks displays and large-scale pyrotechnic shows during La Mercè 2026. In short, no corner of Barcelona is left out – from the old quarter’s winding streets to modern boulevards, you’ll find Mercè activities everywhere.
Opening Parade (Toc d’inici):
The festival traditionally launches with a vibrant opening parade that winds through the historic center. On the evening of September 20th, keep an eye out in the Gothic Quarter for a magical procession featuring the giants, big-heads, devils, and folklore creatures making their grand entrance. This inaugural parade, accompanied by marching bands and traditional dancers, is a joyous spectacle that officially announces La Mercè has begun. It’s a perfect introduction to the festivities, blending medieval pageantry with a block-party atmosphere as locals line the streets to cheer on their favorite giant figures.
Concerts and BAM Festival:
All festival long, music will be the heartbeat of La Mercè 2026. The BAM Festival (Barcelona Acció Musical) and Música Mercè program will present dozens of free concerts across the city’s neighborhoods each day. Whether you’re into indie rock, electronic beats, classical symphonies or Catalan rumba, you’ll find a performance to love. World-class bands and emerging artists alike take the stage at venues like Plaça dels Àngels, Parc del Fòrum, Moll de la Fusta, and more. By night, the energy is electric. Imagine dancing with thousands of people in the warm autumn air as the city skyline lights up around you. Don’t forget to also catch the roaming street performers from human statues on La Rambla to acrobatic troupes in the parks, adding whimsy to every corner of Barcelona.
Piromusical at Montjuïc – Fireworks Finale:
Save your biggest “wow” for last. La Mercè’s grand finale is the legendary Piromusical, a spectacular fireworks show set to music, light, and water effects. On the night of September 24th, crowds will gather at Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina, near Plaça Espanya and the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, for this breathtaking display. As music plays (often a mix of Catalan songs and popular tunes), fountains dance and fireworks burst in sync, painting the sky over Montjuïc in every color. It’s a multi-sensory extravaganza and one of the most anticipated events of the year. The Piromusical is truly the city’s goodbye kiss to the festival, a moment when locals and visitors alike stand together, faces turned upward in awe.
Pro tip: Arrive early to get a good viewing spot (many people picnic on the surrounding lawns or even watch from Montjuïc hill or rooftops). When the first rocket streaks up and explodes to a triumphant song, you’ll understand why Barcelona waits all year for this night.
Guest City of 2026 – Manchester:
Each year, La Mercè invites a guest city from somewhere in the world to share its culture with Barcelona. For 2026, the invited guest city is Manchester, UK, and they’re bringing a burst of British creativity to the Catalan capital! Throughout the festival, you can catch special performances, concerts, and art installations showcasing Manchester’s vibrant arts scene. Look out for unique events like Manchester bands playing as part of the BAM line-up, collaborative street art projects, and even some bee-themed surprises. The bee is the symbol of Manchester, and rumor has it giant bee figures will buzz their way into Barcelona’s parades!. The Guest City program is an excellent chance to “travel” to another city’s culture without leaving Barcelona, and it adds an international flair to La Mercè. Don’t miss the Manchester pavilion or info-point to see what this year’s partner city has in store. It could be an indie music showcase, a contemporary dance troupe, or a twist on the Catalan traditions with a Mancunian touch.
Live the Festival with Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP)
Visiting La Mercè is fantastic, but living in La Mercè as an insider is even better. That’s where SHIP (Spanish Homestay Immersion Program) comes in. With SHIP, you’re not just a tourist watching from the sidelines; you become part of Barcelona’s heartbeat. Imagine experiencing the festival through the eyes of locals: sharing laughs with your host family at the neighborhood correfoc, learning the words to Catalan songs, and toasting cava with new friends as fireworks light up the sky. La Mercè becomes your festival, and Barcelona becomes a second home
Homestay Living:
Stay with a carefully chosen Spanish host family in Barcelona during the festival. You’ll be welcomed into a real home, enjoying home-cooked meals, family traditions, and warm hospitality. Your hosts will treat you like family, taking you along to their favorite La Mercè events or watching the parade from the balcony together. This homestay experience means you’re never alone in the crowd; you have local insiders to show you the ropes and explain the meaning behind the celebrations.
Immersive Spanish Lessons:
As part of SHIP, each day you’ll have interactive Spanish lessons tailored to your level. But forget dry classroom drills – lessons might happen over a walk in the park or while discussing last night’s concert. You’ll learn practical language skills that help you navigate the festival: ordering churros in Spanish, chatting with locals about the castellers, or reading the program schedule. By using your new Spanish in real-life situations, you’ll see your confidence soar. It’s “learn by living,” and La Mercè provides the perfect lively classroom.
Guided Festival Activities:
SHIP makes sure you don’t miss any of the La Mercè magic. The program includes a schedule of guided outings to festival events. That might mean going as a group with your host or teacher to see the human towers in Plaça Sant Jaume, or having a knowledgeable guide take you to the Correfoc and find a safe, exciting viewing spot. You could join a sardana dance with locals or attend a BAM concert with fellow students. These guided activities help you dive into the festivities with context and company. Instead of figuring it all out on your own, you have a built-in support network to enrich your experience (and maybe a local’s tip on where to get the best street food afterward!).
Cultural Immersion:
Beyond the big events, SHIP ensures you truly absorb Barcelona’s culture. You might cook a traditional Catalan dish with your host family, learn a few steps of a local dance, or practice festive vocabulary by talking about the day’s events. During La Mercè, the city’s traditions are on full display, and you’ll be participating, not just observing. From trying panellets (Catalan sweets) at a local bakery to understanding why a statue of the Mare de Déu de la Mercè presides over Plaça de la Mercè, every day is a lesson in culture. By the end of the program, you won’t just have seen La Mercè – you’ll feel like you truly lived it.
Student Spotlight: “SHIP changed the way I see Spain. I lived the language, the culture, and the traditions. Watching La Mercè’s fireworks with my host family was unforgettable!” Emily, USA. This is the kind of heartfelt memory that SHIP strives to create for each participant – a blend of language learning and genuine connection to Barcelona’s people and celebrations.
Tips for First-Time La Mercè Visitors
Is it your first time experiencing Barcelona’s biggest festival? Here are a few handy tips to help you navigate La Mercè 2026 like a pro and make the most of every moment:
Stay Informed with the Official App:
Download the La Mercè app on your smartphone for up-to-the-minute schedules and alerts. With hundreds of events happening, the app is a lifesaver – it lets you browse what’s on each day, create a favorites list, and even shows maps of event locations. The schedule can change, so real-time updates will ensure you don’t miss that castellers show or your favorite band’s performance. (Bonus: the app usually has English, Spanish, and Catalan options, making it easy to use.)
Dress for Comfort and Safety:
Barcelona’s streets become your playground during La Mercè, so comfortable shoes are a must – you’ll be walking and standing for hours as you hop from concert to parade to fireworks. September weather is generally warm, but it can cool off at night, so carry a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. If you plan on diving into the Correfoc or standing close, wear cotton clothing that covers your arms and legs (to protect from stray sparks) and maybe a cap or bandana. A small backpack with a refillable water bottle will also help: staying hydrated is important when you’re out all day in the late summer sun. And don’t forget some sunscreen for daytime events, the September sun in Barcelona can still be strong in the early afternoon.
Capture the Memories (and Share Them!):
La Mercè is pure eye candy for photographers and Instagram lovers. From human towers balancing in a crowded square to spectacular fireworks blossoming over Montjuïc, you’ll encounter countless jaw-dropping scenes. So make sure to charge your camera or phone each night, and have plenty of space for photos. The festival’s bright costumes, smiling faces, and dramatic moments are Instagram heaven. That said, do take some time to put the camera down and simply soak in the atmosphere – the laughter of kids chasing giants, the sound of drums echoing in ancient streets, the feeling of togetherness in the crowd. Those mental pictures will last a lifetime. If you want a good vantage point for popular events (like the Piromusical or castellers), arrive early. And if you’re posting on social media, the official hashtag (usually something like #Mercè2026) is a fun way to share your experience and see what others are up to across the city.
Finally, a bit of common sense: Barcelona will be busy during La Mercè. Give yourself extra time to move around, be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas, and embrace the friendly chaos of it all. Don’t worry if you can’t see everything – there’s simply too much! Instead, pick a few must-dos and allow spontaneity to lead you to unexpected joys. Sometimes the best festival memories happen by chance (like stumbling upon a mesmerizing street performer at midnight or joining a group of locals for a drink after a concert).
Ready to Experience La Mercè 2026?
Barcelona is calling, and La Mercè 2026 promises to be an extraordinary celebration of culture and community. This is your chance to not only witness one of Europe’s most vibrant festivals, but to be a part of it. Imagine improving your Spanish while singing along at a concert, or learning a local dance from your host “family” – all against the backdrop of fireworks and festivities. With the Spanish Homestay Immersion Program, you can turn this travel experience into something deeper: a cultural immersion where language learning and holiday fun go hand in hand.
Don’t just read about it – come live it!
Whether you’re a student, a retiree, or an adventurous traveler, La Mercè has something for everyone. 2026’s edition is shaping up to be one for the ages, and SHIP can help you navigate it like a true local. You’ll return home not only with incredible stories and photos, but also with improved Spanish skills, new friendships, and a genuine connection to Barcelona’s way of life.
Ready to join the fiesta?
Start planning your La Mercè adventure now. Contact us to discover how SHIP can tailor your stay. No matter your age or background, we even have special programs for 65+ learners. Barcelona awaits with open arms, and the city’s biggest party won’t be the same without you. ¡Nos vemos en Barcelona este septiembre! – We’ll see you in Barcelona this September, living La Mercè to the fullest.
Prepare to dance, celebrate, and learn. Barcelona and La Mercè 2026 are ready to give you the experience of a lifetime. Ens hi apuntem? (Shall we join in?) Come immerse yourself in the magic of La Mercè – and return home with not just souvenirs, but a bit of Barcelona in your heart.
Live La Mercè Like a Local with Full Spanish Immersion
La Mercè is more than a festival it’s everyday Barcelona at its most alive. Through the Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP), you don’t just attend events, you live inside the language, staying with a host teacher, sharing daily life, and experiencing traditions, conversations, and celebrations from the inside.
SHIP during La Mercè is ideal for:
Cultural travelers who want real local experiences
Learners who want natural Spanish through daily life
Adults of all ages seeking meaningful immersion
Visitors who want to understand traditions, not just watch them
People who learn best by living the language
You can explore similar immersion experiences here:
👉 Spanish Culture & Language Immersion Stories
For personalised guidance and homestay details, contact:
Mónica Romero
Founder & Director, Spanish Express
📞 Phone / WhatsApp: +44 7903 867 894
📧 Email: monicaromero@spanishexpress.co.uk
