The highly anticipated festival of Barcelona, La Mercè, returns this year 2021. After being celebrated virtually last year due to health restrictions, it will take place in person from September 23rd to 26th, respecting all necessary precautions and restrictions. Below, we explain all the information you need about La Mercè 2021.
What is the La Mercè Festival in Barcelona
Since the Virgin of La Mercè was declared the patron saint of the city, Barcelona has been celebrating this festival in September. It became popular in 1902 when the Fiesta Mayor was celebrated, which still follows the current format and takes place across Catalonia.
Today, La Mercè is a festival that fills many public spaces, offering a program focused on Catalan culture. The streets come alive with art, concerts, traditional dances like the Sardana from Girona, castellers, and the diablos (fire-breathers) from Camp de Tarragona, among many other activities.
La Mercè 2021 Program
There will be activities for all ages and audiences. The dates for the events have not been confirmed yet, but they will be available on this link.
The key locations and activities will include the following:
Correfoc: This fire run will take place in Via Laietana and surrounding areas with two schedules: one for juniors, a calmer version at 6:30 PM, and another for adults later at 8:30 PM. The street will be closed off exclusively for the diablos. Protective clothing, thick long-sleeve clothes, and goggles or hats are recommended, as sparks from fireworks are often sprayed.
Castellers: This human tower building tradition takes place in Plaça de Sant Jaume at 12:00 PM, though it’s best to arrive early. The towers built are so tall that they are impressive to watch.
Giants Parade: Giant figures of kings, queens, and nobles march through the streets of Barcelona accompanied by small percussion groups playing rhythms on drums. It starts at Plaça de Sant Jaume and usually lasts all morning.
Projection Show: During the evenings in Plaça de Sant Jaume, images are projected onto the buildings in the square.
Friday, September 20th from 9:15 PM to midnight
Saturday, September 21st from 8:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Sunday, September 22nd from 8:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Monday, September 23rd from 10:30 PM to midnight
Tuesday, September 24th from 8:45 PM to 10:00 PM
BAM (Barcelona Acció Musical): Several music stages set up in different areas of Barcelona such as Plaça Catalunya, Parc del Fòrum, and Plaça Real. There will also be free concerts under the Mercè Música program.
Additionally, there will be open days and free museum tours on September 24th, such as the Pedralbes Monastery, the Picasso Museum, the Museu Blau, the MACBA, and the Palau de la Generalitat, among others.
Where to Stay in Barcelona During La Mercè
Want to fully experience La Mercè Festival? Stay in our hotels where you can attend all the events and simultaneously enjoy and discover the city of Barcelona in detail. All this with free cancellation and the best price guaranteed when booking through our Official Website.
Choose one of our comfortable and modern hotels:
Hotel Silken Sant Gervasi is one of the most welcoming Silken hotels in the exclusive and peaceful area of Sarrià – Sant Gervasi in Barcelona, just 10 minutes by public transport from the city center. It is also very well connected to other major tourist landmarks like Park Güell or Tibidabo mountain. The metro stop, just 3 minutes from the hotel, will allow you to explore every corner of the city.
Hotel Silken Ramblas Barcelona is clearly advantageous due to its location right on Las Ramblas in the heart of the city. Right next to it, you’ll find places associated with art, culture, and the city’s history, such as the MACBA Museum, the Boquería Market, or the Liceu Theater.
Barcelona is preparing to welcome many visitors during La Mercè 2021. Book now and ensure an unbeatable stay at our hotels.
Enjoy La Mercè Barcelona 2021 with the Silken Hotels team!
