La Mercè Festival in Barcelona 2026

Once again, the city of Barcelona takes to the streets to offer everything its residents and visitors expect and desire at this time of year: the La Mercè festivities.

From September 23 to 27, Barcelona transforms to celebrate La Mercè 2026, its grand main festival. A multitude of activities fill the streets with music, dance, fire, tradition, and popular culture. If you want to experience Barcelona like never before, mark your calendars: this September, you have a date with the city.

A festival with history and identity

La Mercè is much more than a festival. It has roots in the 13th century and was officially established as a celebration in 1868. Today, it represents the festive and creative soul of Barcelona. Giants, big-headed figures, human towers, fire runs, and devils coexist with concerts, circus performances, dance, and street arts.

The great moments of the Fiesta

• Opening speech: by the actress Emma Vilarasau, from the Saló de Cent.
• Music for all tastes: BAM (Barcelona Acció Musical) and the Música Mercè series will offer free concerts in venues such as Plaça Catalunya, Moll de la Fusta, and Nou Barris. MAC - Mercè Arts de Carrer: circus, dance, and immersive performances in Montjuïc and other spaces, featuring artists from Barcelona and Manchester.
• Open doors: museums such as the MNAC, MACBA or Born CCM open for free on September 24.
• Cursa de la Mercè: September 20th, 10km of solidarity and sport through the streets of the city center.
• Farewell pyromusical: September 27th at 10pm on Bogatell beach.

Mercè is tradition, creativity, and shared emotion. A festival for everyone. Come experience Barcelona in its purest form!

Photo: © Manel Subirats, "Focs a la Barceloneta during the Mercè festivities", Wikimedia Commons, license CC BY-SA 4.0.