La Mercè Barcelona
A Journey into the City’s Most Vibrant Festival
La Mercè Festival, also known as de la Mercè, is Barcelona’s grandest celebration, blending tradition and cultural vibrancy. Organized by the Barcelona City Council, this city-wide event honors Barcelona’s patron saint and features a mix of traditional and modern cultural activities. From parades and concerts to fireworks and dances, the city comes alive with music, art, and festivities, offering a thrilling experience for all.
Embark on a Spanish Adventure Unlike Any Other!
Embark on a Unique Celebration of Barcelona’s Rich Traditions, Traditional Activities, and Culture!
Engage with locals and fellow visitors as you immerse yourself in the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. The Festa Major, particularly the La Mercè Festival around September 24th, is a central aspect of Barcelona’s cultural calendar, showcasing diverse cultural events and traditions. Participate in traditional activities and enhance your Spanish skills through complete immersion, interacting with native speakers in real-life conversations.
Discover the Essence of La Mercè Festival in Barcelona
Immerse Yourself in Barcelona’s Dynamic Atmosphere: During La Mercè, the city buzzes with vibrant cultural displays and excitement. The Festes de la Mercè, a vibrant and significant city festival held annually on September 24th in honor of the patron saint, La Mercè, transforms the city with both traditional and modern cultural elements.
Experience Rich Traditions: Enjoy iconic events like Castells (human towers), Correfoc (fire runs), and Gigantes (giant puppets). The Correfoc features fire-breathing dragons, creating an exhilarating and somewhat dangerous atmosphere. Plaça de Sant Jaume hosts Castellers’ performances, attracting thousands of spectators. Various festival events, such as the BAM Festival, traditional street performances, and the Pyromusical fireworks show, highlight the diversity and uniqueness of the celebration.
Engage with Locals and Visitors: Join the joyous celebration of culture and community. The giants parade, with massive figures and lively percussion music, creates a captivating spectacle.
Inclusions:
- A 7-Day 6-Night Program
- Daily integrated Spanish classes with a native teacher
- Accommodation in the teacher’s home
- Meals provided or outings to local spots
- Daily themed activities guided by the host teacher or a knowledgeable guide
Your host Teachers in Barcelona
As your certified Spanish teacher and hospitable host, I’m delighted to lead you on this language adventure. Let’s immerse ourselves in the vibrant spirit of Barcelona’s grand festival, La Mercè. Join me as we delve into the heart of this lively celebration, where a warm and genuine welcome awaits. Together, let’s ignite our passion for language and culture!
– Mónica
Guided Tours of Barcelona
Discover the rich history and cultural significance of La Mercè, from its origins to its impact on the city. Participate in the traditional Sardana dance and explore the bustling city centre filled with events and parades.
Experience the Parade of Giants and Big Heads
Immerse yourself in one of La Mercè’s cherished traditions, featuring towering figures and lively parades. The Seguici Popular de Barcelona, a significant aspect of the city’s cultural festivals, originates from a research project dedicated to preserving historic references and includes various symbolic figures and creatures. Casablanca, the guest city for La Mercè 2024, will add its unique cultural flair to the festival.
Witness the Castellers
Be amazed by the Castellers, where teams build breathtaking human towers that showcase strength and teamwork. La Mercè 2024 will include special programming like the musical-fireworks display.
Watch the Correfoc
Feel the thrill of the Correfoc, where participants dressed as devils dance through sparks and flames, creating an electrifying atmosphere in Plaça Sant Jaume. The festival also features a variety of street performances, such as theatre, music, and dance, that take place throughout the city, including major venues like Ciutadella Park.
Tour Iconic Landmarks
Visit Barcelona’s architectural wonders, including Park Güell, the Sagrada Família, and other Gaudí masterpieces. Stroll through the Gothic Quarter, rich with history and medieval architecture.
End with a Tasting of Barcelona’s Famous Tapas
Savor traditional Catalan dishes and local delicacies, indulging in the authentic flavors of Barcelona.
Requirements to Join this Adventure in Barcelona
This is a conversational oriented experience, therefore it is recommended for Spanish learners with at least a B1 proficiency level.
Furthermore, for this experience you must:
- Participate in a Zoom meeting to assess your conversational skills
- Be open-minded to share the adventure with students from different countries
- Commit to using only the Spanish language during your stay in Barcelona
- Be eager to embrace this unforgettable experience!
FAQs
What is the festival on 24th September in Barcelona?
The 24th of September is an official holiday day in Barcelona. Since it was a local event, the public holiday doesn’t usually exist near Barcelona.
How many people attend La Mercè?
During this colorful and cultural event, nearly 3 million visitors attend the celebrations throughout Barcelona. The highlight of this festival is the “Mare de Déu de la Mercè” on September 24, the birthday of the patron saint La Mercè.
What is the holiday on September 24 in Barcelona?
The annual celebration of Marque de Mercè, patron saint of Barcelona, is held on September 24 in many streets in the capital. It is a short but intense event packed with varied cultural activities for all ages.
What is the La Mercè festival in Barcelona?
Barcelona La Mercè lasts about five days and is a celebration of Mare de Déu de la Mercê, the patron saint of Barcelona. Originally organized in 1902, it bids goodbye with excitement and welcomes the colder season in Autumn.
What happens at La Mercè?
The festival is celebrated each day with a parade featuring mythic figures and a traditional drum. Around 600 events are scattered in the Plaza, Streets, Museums, and park areas. All activities are free of charge. Barcelona metro lines run throughout the night during the festival.