La Mercè
La Mercè (officially Festa Major de Barcelona) is Barcelona's largest annual festival, celebrating the city's patron saint, Our Lady of Mercy. Held every year around 24 September, it transforms the city into a four-day programme of over 600 free events — world-class concerts, traditional Catalan folk displays, fire runs, human towers, and open-air parties across every neighbourhood.
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June
La Patum de Berga
La Patum is a medieval festival of fire, music and mythical beasts celebrated in the mountain town of Berga during Corpus Christi week. Recognised by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2005, it features fire-breathing demons, battling angels, giants and a climactic inferno called the Salt de Plens where the entire plaza erupts in flames. It is one of the oldest and most intense festival traditions in Spain.
May
Aplec del Cargol
The Aplec del Cargol in Lleida is the world's largest snail-eating festival and a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest. Over three days, 200,000+ visitors consume around 12 tonnes of snails cooked in dozens of styles, while enjoying live music, competitions, and Catalan traditions.
December
Fira de Santa Llúcia
Barcelona's oldest Christmas market (since 1786) fills the square in front of the Cathedral with nativity scene figures, caganers, Christmas trees and traditional Catalan holiday crafts.
February
Carnaval de Sitges
Sitges Carnival is Spain's most colourful and inclusive celebration. This charming coastal town near Barcelona transforms into a non-stop party with extravagant parades, drag competitions, and the legendary Rua de la Disbauxa (debauchery parade). Over 300,000 visitors join the fun.