Barcelona is set for a culturally packed weekend, with a diverse line-up of events spanning non-fiction cinema, open-air music, and vibrant neighbourhood festivities. From the return of a major film festival to the delayed but eagerly awaited Carnival parade in Barceloneta, the city offers a rich agenda for residents and visitors alike, as compiled by local broadcaster betevé.

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Cinematic Celebrations Across the City

Film enthusiasts have a compelling reason to head to the cinema this weekend with the arrival of La Inesperada, the city’s festival dedicated to non-fiction film. Running from 19 to 22 February 2026, the event showcases innovative and boundary-pushing documentary work. Screenings will take place at key cultural venues, including the Filmoteca de Catalunya in Raval and the Zumzeig Cinecooperativa in Sants.

The city’s cinematic focus extends beyond independent festivals, with the build-up to the Goya Awards continuing. Until 1 March, visitors can find seven monumental sculptures of the iconic Goya statuette at prominent locations, including Parc del Fòrum, Plaça de les Glòries, and the steps of the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC). For those seeking a more personal memento, the Barcelona City Council is hosting a Goya-themed photocall until 28 March.

On Sunday evening, music and film will merge at L’Auditori. The concert, titled “The Power of Music in Cinema,” will feature an orchestra performing award-winning scores from past Goya editions, with actress Victoria Luengo serving as master of ceremonies.

Music Takes Centre Stage from Day to Night

The 2026 music season kicks off in earnest on Saturday with the first SOUNDIT event of the year. The popular open-air party returns to the spectacular setting of the former bullring, La Monumental. Headlining the day-long session is DJ and producer Cooking with Palms Trax, promising an energetic start to the season.

The live music continues into the night across the city. On Friday, 20 February, Catalan artist Julieta will perform at Sala Razzmatazz as part of the Cruïlla Hivern concert series. Meanwhile, fans of electronic music will enjoy a treat, as techno pioneer Jeff Mills is set for two major performances. According to event listings on Resident Advisor, Mills will play at Sala Apolo on Friday and Nitsa Club on Sunday, offering a rare opportunity to see the legendary artist twice in one weekend.

Carnival Parades and Neighbourhood Pride

While most of the city celebrated Carnival last week, the party is just getting started in one of its most historic districts. The seaside neighbourhood of La Barceloneta will host its traditional ‘Carnavalada’ on Sunday, 22 February. Following a local custom, the neighbourhood holds its main parade a week after the city-wide Carnestoltes, ensuring a final, spirited celebration of the season.

In addition, the district of Gràcia is already looking ahead to its next major festival, Sant Medir. This weekend will feature preliminary activities, including a proclamation, a ‘cercavila’ parade, and a ‘correfoc’ fire-run, all building anticipation for the main event on 3 March.

Further afield, the Open Barri initiative continues its mission to showcase the city’s architectural diversity. From 16 February to 1 March, the Nou Barris district takes centre stage. Organised by 48h Open House Barcelona, the event offers free access to significant local buildings, aligning with Barcelona’s role as the UNESCO-UIA World Capital of Architecture for 2026.

According to the official source, see La Inesperada Film Festival.