Barcelona is gearing up for its grand annual celebration, La Mercè, which returns from 23 to 28 September with a packed programme of more than 200 events across the city. From concerts and theatre to circus and dance, the Catalan capital will once again transform into a vast open-air stage. You can follow all of the events by day on the La Merce section of the adjunctament of Barcelona’s website.
The festivities promise over 100 concerts, 80 street arts performances and 55 popular culture activities, all free of charge and spread across major city venues including Plaça Catalunya, Parc del Fòrum and Port Olímpic. Parks and squares across most districts will be filled with music, theatre and dance aimed at all audiences, continuing the tradition of decentralising the programme so every neighbourhood can take part.
This year’s guest city is Manchester, which will bring its own artistic flair to Barcelona, contributing not only music and performance but also newly created ‘festive beasts’ that will join the Catalan celebrations. The collaboration highlights La Mercè’s growing international reach and its aim of fostering cultural exchange.
La Mercè is regarded as one of the highlights of Barcelona’s cultural calendar, attracting locals and visitors alike. The combination of Catalan traditions — including castellers, sardana dancing and the popular correfoc — with international talent reinforces the festival’s dual role as a celebration of community identity and a cosmopolitan showcase.
With its mix of tradition and modernity, the 2025 edition is expected to strengthen La Mercè’s reputation as one of Europe’s most vibrant urban festivals.
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Source: El Periódico
