Discover Authentic Catalonia in March!

With winter still making itself felt and spring just beginning to show, Catalonia continues to celebrate its most authentic festivals and traditions. March is a month full of joy, with Carnival, historical festivals, religious celebrations and seasonal cuisine that reflects the identity of this territory.

CARNIVAL: THE PARTY OF UNBRIDLENESS CONTINUES

In Catalonia, Carnival is celebrated seven weeks after the first full moon after the winter solstice. This festival, marked by fun and joy, reaches its climax in a few days full of colour, costumes and music.

Many municipalities extend the celebration with special events during the weekend of March 8 and 9, with parties and costume balls that culminate with Ash Wednesday and the Burial of the Sardine, which ends the festival and begins Lent.

L'AIXADA FAIR: A JOURNEY TO THE MIDDLE AGES

On March 1 and 2, the Feria de l'Aixada is held in Manresa, one of the most spectacular historical recreation events in Catalonia. For a weekend, the city is transformed into a medieval market full of actors representing historical scenes, merchants selling artisan products and street performances that bring the past to life.

This fair is inspired by 14th-century events related to the legend of light, a story that explains how a mysterious celestial light allowed the completion of the medieval canal in Manresa. It is an ideal experience for families and history lovers who want to immerse themselves in the medieval atmosphere of the city.

Every March 3, the streets of Gràcia and other neighborhoods of Barcelona are filled with candy, dried fruit and joy in celebration of Sant Medir, one of the most unique festivals in the city. The organizing groups go through the streets on horseback, in floats or trucks, throwing kilos of candy to the attendees, in a festive day that brings together young and old.

The origin of the festival dates back to the 19th century, when a baker from Barcelona made a promise to go to the hermitage of Sant Medir, in Collserola, as a sign of gratitude for a favour received. Over time, this tradition has evolved into a great popular celebration in which sweetness is the protagonist.

On March 19th, Sant Josep is celebrated, a deeply rooted festival in Catalonia that has a strong gastronomic component. This day is synonymous with Catalan cream, one of the most traditional and emblematic desserts of Catalonia.

Apart from the gastronomic aspect, the feast of Saint Joseph is also Father's Day, so many families celebrate the day with special lunches and family gatherings.

March is an ideal month to enjoy nature and outdoor sports. Catalonia has a wide range of activities for adventure lovers, from excursions to natural parks to water and mountain activities. Some of the most outstanding options include:

• Hiking and walking routes: Routes such as the 7 Gorgs Route in La Garrotxa, the Caminos de Ronda along the sea that offer spectacular landscapes, the Green Routes or the Blue Routes that you cannot miss.
• Cycling and mountain biking: The network of greenways, such as the Carrilet de Olot in Girona, allows you to enjoy safe and charming routes.
• Water activities: With the arrival of good weather, options such as kayaking on the Ebro, paddle surfing on the Costa Dorada or scuba diving on the Costa Brava begin to proliferate.

Seasonal gastronomy: The artichoke, the star of March

In Catalan cuisine, the artichoke is the star of the show in February and March. With an intense flavour and tender texture, the artichoke can be enjoyed in many ways: grilled, in an omelette, fried or as an ingredient in traditional dishes.

In various towns, especially in Baix Llobregat and the Ebro Delta, artichoke festivals are held, where visitors can taste this product in various preparations. The Artichoke Festival in El Prat de Llobregat is one of the best known, with gastronomic events and tastings in local restaurants.

From historical festivals to the sweetest traditions and the best seasonal cuisine, March is a perfect month to discover the most authentic Catalonia.

Whether it's taking part in medieval fairs, enjoying the Sant Medir festival, practising outdoor sports or tasting delicious artichokes, this month offers a unique opportunity to live experiences that combine culture, nature and gastronomy. Catalonia is a territory full of life and tradition, and March is a perfect time to explore it in all its splendour.