If you’re staying in a villa in Barcelona during September, you may be wondering why there’s an extra special atmosphere surrounding the city and why everyone appears to be in good spirits. It’s because of La Mercè, a lively and exciting festival that is one of Barcelona’s most important annual calendar events. The festival takes place on 24th September each year and is not to be missed!

History of La Mercè

Catalans have celebrated La Mercè since 1871, although the celebrations as we know them today were largely introduced during the early 20th century. The event is thrown in honour of the Mare de Déu de la Mercè, or Virgin of Grace, who is believed to have saved Barcelona from a plague of locusts. If you’re staying in a Barcelona vacation rental in or near to the Gothic Quarter, you can visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy, which displays a statue of the Virgin at the top of the church.

Festivities

Street performances, parades featuring giant statues (gegants i capgrossos), and human towers (castellers) are all standard events that take place throughout the festival. However, each year there’s something new and different, including ‘fire runs’, fire-breathing dragons, and light projection shows. The festivities continue well into the night, but don’t worry too much about how to get back to your vacation villa in Barcelona; there are often late night train services in operation.

Catalan Produce

La Mercè is one of the best times to sample some authentic Catalan food and drink, especially at the Catalan Wine & Cava Festival which takes place as part of the event. Beverages from local Catalan vineyards are available to taste and purchase, and they make great souvenirs or gifts to bring back to friends and family from your holiday in Spain.