La Mercè

Barcelona’s Festive Tribute to Its Patron Saint

La Mercè is a vibrant and cherished festival celebrated annually in the city of Barcelona, Spain. Taking place in late September, this week-long event pays tribute to the city’s patron saint, the Virgin of Mercy, and showcases the rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit of Barcelona. La Mercè is a time of joyful festivities, music, dance, fireworks, and a myriad of activities that attract both locals and visitors from around the world.

The Iconic Giants and Human Towers

One of the most distinctive features of La Mercè is the presence of the “gegants” (giants) and “castellers” (human towers). The gegants are enormous papier-mâché figures, each representing a different character, such as kings, queens, nobles, or historical figures. Carried by teams of skilled puppeteers, the gegants parade through the streets, captivating the crowds with their impressive size and colorful attire.

The castellers, on the other hand, are groups of people who come together to form towering human structures. Participants climb upon each other’s shoulders, creating awe-inspiring towers that can reach astonishing heights. The construction and deconstruction of these human towers require precise coordination, strength, and teamwork, making it a thrilling spectacle for spectators.

Music, Dance, and Street Performances

La Mercè is renowned for its diverse range of music and dance performances that take place throughout the city. Music fills the air, with concerts featuring local and international artists spanning various genres, from traditional Catalan music to contemporary sounds. Outdoor stages are set up in squares and parks, allowing people to enjoy live music in a festive and open atmosphere.

In addition to the music, vibrant traditional dances, such as the Sardana, a circle dance performed by locals holding hands, can be witnessed in different parts of the city. Street performers, acrobats, and circus acts entertain the crowds with their mesmerizing skills and artistic displays. The streets of Barcelona become a stage, creating an enchanting ambiance and fostering a sense of community and celebration.

La Mercè Correfoc and Fireworks

Two of the most exhilarating experiences during La Mercè are the Correfoc and the fireworks displays. The Correfoc, meaning “fire run,” is a dazzling procession where participants dress up as demons and dragons. Carrying pitchforks with fireworks attached to them, they dance and run through the streets, creating a breathtaking spectacle of fire and sparks. Attendees can join the procession, equipped with fireproof clothing and hats, and become part of the immersive experience.

The fireworks displays during La Mercè are a true highlight of the festival. Spectacular pyrotechnic shows light up the night sky, mesmerizing viewers with their vibrant colors and intricate designs. The main fireworks event, known as the Piromusical, combines music and fireworks to create a synchronized and captivating performance. The sky above Barcelona becomes a canvas, illuminating the city in a burst of brilliance and delight.

La Mercè is a remarkable celebration that showcases the cultural richness, artistic flair, and vibrant spirit of Barcelona. From the towering gegants and human towers to the music, dance, and street performances, this festival captivates the senses and fosters a sense of unity and joy. With the thrilling Correfoc and breathtaking fireworks displays, La Mercè provides a unique and unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors, allowing them to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Barcelona’s patron saint celebration.

Do You Want to Learn more about La Mercè?

Go to the lamerce.barcelona website, where you will find information on each day’s programme, with event times, venues, types and the district where they will take place. There is also a descriptive page for each event containing more detailed information.

There is a La Mercè app, which can be downloaded to Android and iOS devices, where you find all the information on the shows, the time schedules and maps of the venues.
You will also find information on all the events and possible incidents on social media: @bcnCultura, @festivalBAM, @culturapopularbcn and @culturavivabcn.