What to See at La Mercè 2024: A Weekend of Culture, Fireworks, and Fun

Every September, Barcelona comes alive with La Mercè, a celebration in honor of the city’s patron saint, La Mare de Déu de la Mercè (Our Lady of Mercy). This multi-day festival, which runs this year from September 20th to 24th in 2024, is the city’s largest public event, turning every available street, square, and park into stages for an explosion of culture, music, and community spirit.

Just as the seasons begin to change, La Mercè offers a blend of tradition and modernity, making it one of the most exciting times to experience the essence of Barcelona

WATCH THE 30 SECOND TRAILER FOR LA MERCE 2024

History of La Mercè

The origins of La Mercè date back to the 17th century when the people of Barcelona prayed to the Virgin of Mercy to save the city from a plague of locusts. Since then, she has been celebrated as the city’s protector. Over the centuries, La Mercè evolved from a religious observance into the large-scale, secular celebration it is today, reflecting the unique culture and traditions of Catalonia.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Barcelona this weekend, you’re in for one of the city’s most exciting events of the year: La Mercè Festival. Taking place from September 20th to 24th, this celebration transforms Barcelona into a playground of culture, fireworks, music, and history. Best of all, its FREE (well most of it)!  

How is La Mercè Divided?

La Mercè features several different types of events spread across various venues in Barcelona. Here are the main categories of events:

Traditional Catalan Events

• Castellers (Human Towers): A key feature of the festival, showcasing teams of people building human towers.
• Correfoc (Fire Run): A thrilling event where participants dressed as devils parade through the streets, running with firecrackers and sparklers.
• Gegants i Capgrossos (Giants and Bigheads Parade): A traditional parade with giant figures representing historical and mythical characters.

Musical Concerts

• Música Mercè: Features over 100 musical acts across different genres, with performances taking place in various locations like Parc de la Ciutadella, Plaça Catalunya, and the beaches.
• BAM (Barcelona Acció Musical): Focuses on more alternative and independent music, offering a platform for emerging artists from Barcelona and beyond

Street Performances

• Mercè Arts de Carrer (MAC): This program includes street arts, circus acts, and acrobatic performances, mainly held in places like Parc de la Ciutadella and Montjuïc.

Family and Cultural Activities

• Events aimed at families and children, including workshops, puppet shows, and games, are held at various venues, including the Parc de la Ciutadella.

Light Shows and Fireworks

• The Piromusical, the festival's grand finale, is a dazzling fireworks display synchronized with music and water at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. It’s one of the festival's most iconic events.

Guest City Program

• Each year, La Mercè features a guest city, showcasing artists, performances, and exhibitions from that city. For 2024, Casablanca is the guest city, with special performances celebrating Moroccan culture

Here are the must-see highlights to ensure you get the best out of your La Mercè experience:

1. Castellers – The Human Towers

When: Saturday, September 21st at 12:00 PM

Where: Plaça Sant Jaume

Don’t Miss: The Castellers showcase the Catalan tradition of forming jaw-dropping human towers, or "castells", sometimes reaching up to 10 levels high. It’s a powerful display of strength, balance, and trust, and watching them in the heart of the city is a must. Get there early for a good view!

2. La Mercè Parade – Giants and Bigheads (Gegants i Capgrossos)

When: Friday, September 20th at 6:00 PM (with additional parades over the weekend)

Where: Starting at Plaça de la Mercè

Why Go: A long-standing favorite, this parade features enormous, elaborately designed "giants" and "bigheads" made of papier-mâché. These whimsical characters, often dressed as royalty or historical figures, dance through the streets accompanied by lively music. Great for families and anyone who loves a festive atmosphere!

3. Correfoc – The Fire Run

When: Saturday, September 21st at 8:30 PM

Where: Via Laietana

Thrill Factor: The Correfoc is one of La Mercè’s wildest traditions. People dressed as devils run through the streets wielding firecrackers and sparklers, creating a fiery spectacle that’s as exhilarating as it is intense. If you're feeling bold, wear long sleeves and join in the action—just be ready for sparks flying in every direction!

4. Fireworks and Light Show at Montjuïc

When: Sunday, September 22nd at 9:00 PM

Where: Montjuïc Magic Fountain

The Show: No festival would be complete without fireworks, and La Mercè's fireworks show is set to a mesmerizing light display at the famous Magic Fountain. The lights dance in tune to the music, making it one of the most enchanting spectacles you’ll see all weekend.

5. Piromusical – The Closing Ceremony Fireworks

When: Sunday, September 22nd at 10:00 PM

Where: Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina (near Plaça Espanya)

Grand Finale: The Piromusical is La Mercè’s grand finale, where fireworks, music, and water from the Magic Fountain come together in perfect harmony. The fireworks are timed to an eclectic mix of traditional, classical, and contemporary music. Arrive early to get a spot near Plaça Espanya for the best view!

6. Free Concerts Around the City

When: Friday, September 20th – Monday, September 23rd (various times)

Where: Parc de la Ciutadella, Moll de la Fusta, and other locations

Music for Everyone: Throughout La Mercè, there are free concerts happening all over Barcelona. From indie rock bands to traditional Catalan music, there’s something for every taste. Check out Parc de la Ciutadella for laid-back vibes or head to Moll de la Fusta for waterfront performances.

7. Mercè Arts de Carrer (MAC) – Street Arts Festival

When: Daily, from Friday, September 20th to Monday, September 23rd

Where: Parc de la Ciutadella and Montjuïc

Art Attack: Experience Barcelona’s creativity firsthand with street performances, acrobatics, and outdoor theater at the MAC festival. Held mainly in Parc de la Ciutadella and Montjuïc, this event showcases the best of contemporary performance art, offering something new around every corner. Perfect for families and art lovers alike.

8. Sardana Dance – Join the Locals!

When: Sunday, September 22nd at 11:00 AM

Where: Plaça Sant Jaume

Why Participate: The Sardana is a traditional Catalan dance where participants form circles and move in a coordinated pattern. It symbolizes unity and community. Even if you don’t know the steps, locals are welcoming, and you can easily join in or simply enjoy the spectacle.

9. Parc de la Ciutadella - After the Sun Sets...

When: All Weekend BUT WE SUGGEST TO GO AT NIGHT!

By day you can find street performances & family activities: The park will also feature circus acts, acrobats, and activities for children. It’s a hub of diverse cultural offerings during the festival BUT as night falls, Parc de la Ciutadella will also host spectacular light installations, adding a magical touch to the natural surroundings of this beautiful park. With its serene setting and variety of performances, Parc de la Ciutadella is a must-visit during La Mercè 2024 especially at night!

Plan Your Perfect La Mercè Weekend!

La Mercè has something for everyone, from fire-filled excitement at the Correfoc to the elegance of traditional dances and the wonder of human towers. Whether you're interested in music, history, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, this weekend in Barcelona will be unforgettable.

YOU CAN FIND THE COMPLETE LINEUP AND MORE INFORMATION HERE: https://www.barcelona.cat/lamerce/en

BONUS TIP FOR READING THIS FAR: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and plan ahead as it's impossible to see everything. Start early to avoid the crowds and watch your belongings—Barcelona gets busy during this festival and its easy to get distracted. Most importantly, enjoy the celebrations and dive into the city's rich culture!