What to do in February in Barcelona
February in Barcelona; generally a quieter tourist month, making it a fine time for visiting the city’s top sights and enjoying the local Carnival, Santa Eulàlia & Llum Barcelona celebrations. Let’s not forget the tradition of barbecuing strange shaped onions in the countryside with friends and loved ones – We would definitely recommend! As the high season begins to pick up in March, this is your last chance to go sightseeing without tackling big crowds of people. February really is the perfect time to be a tourist in your own city.
What to do in February in Barcelona?
Important Dates
Valentine's Day - 14th February
While Catalonia celebrates its own romantic day, Sant Jordi on 23rd April, the global charm of Valentine’s Day is growing. The 14th of February is the perfect occasion to show affection to your loved one in Barcelona.
The city offers a variety of romantic experiences, from a leisurely walk along the beach to a rejuvenating spa day or a cozy candlelit dinner. In Barcelona, the possibilities for a perfect celebration are endless.
- 14th February
- More info
February in Barcelona: Festas
Saint Eulàlia
The Santa Eulàlia festivities, also known as La Laia, is arguably Barcelona’s biggest Winter celebration and is held around the 12th February each year.
- 12th February
- City Centre
- More info
Carnaval in Barcelona & Sitges
Sitges Carnival ranks among the world’s top 10, drawing over 250,000 visitors during its 7-day celebration with spectacular parades, lively shows, and unforgettable parties. Renowned as Spain’s greatest party, Sitges transforms into a 24/7 fiesta throughout Carnival week.
Sitges Carnival always starts on the Thursday prior to Ash Wednesday. The Carnival ‘officially’ begins when the King of Carnival arrives into town, and ends when he departs on Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent).
While the carnival is a beloved event for everyone, it is especially popular within the LGBTQ+ community, in part because of Sitges’ reputation as Europe’s gay capital. Although Sitges Carnival is not exclusively a gay event, you cannot deny the influence that this community has on the local celebrations. The town proudly embraces its diverse and inclusive atmosphere.
The streets come alive with people of all ages wearing extravagant costumes, socialising, singing, dancing, and partying into the night. Bars and nightclubs host celebrations from dusk until dawn, alongside drag shows, contests, concerts, fireworks, traditional dances, and much more.
The specific Carnival parades are scheduled as follows:
- Sunday 2nd March: 12:00 PM for children, 7:30 PM for adults
- Tuesday 4th March: 12:00 PM for children, 9:00 PM for adults
- 27th February - 5th March
- Sitges
- More info
Flavours of February
Barcelona Wine Week (BWW)
Barcelona Wine Week (BWW) is Spain’s premier wine event, bringing together the country’s top wine producers and industry experts. While it’s primarily focused on showcasing wines to local and international media, it also offers a unique opportunity for wine lovers to explore and appreciate wine on a deeper level. With tastings, workshops, and expert-led sessions, BWW provides an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to expand their wine knowledge and indulge in some of the finest selections Spain has to offer.
- 50+
- 3rd - 5th February
- Recinto Montjuïc
- More info
Calçotada
If you live in Barcelona, you’ve probably noticed the arrival of calçots in local markets and grocery stores. Calçotadas are traditional Catalan barbecues that take place from January to April, the focal point being, of course, the fresh calçot course.
Grilled over an open flame, these sweet onions are peeled and dipped in rich romesco sauce, making for a delicious (and messy) experience. While you can find calçotades in Barcelona city centre, the best way to enjoy one is in the countryside (Valls, Sitges, or Castelldefels) where the tradition truly comes to life.
February in Barcelona: Music Festivals
Black Music Festival
- Free - 34
- 13th February - 24th March
- City Centre
- More info
February in Barcelona: Sports
eDreams Mitja Marató Barcelona
Runners from across the globe eagerly sign up to take on this scenic route through the heart of Barcelona. The eDreams Mitja Marató Barcelona is one of the city’s premier half-marathon events, attracting a diverse mix of participants, from athletes striving for record-breaking times, to amateur runners looking to challenge themselves in a world-class race.
- 16-18
- 16th February
- City Centre
- More info
February in Barcelona: Other Events
Llum Barcelona
Every February, alongside the Santa Eulàlia festival, Barcelona shines with Llum Barcelona, a fusion of art and technology through luminous installations. The Poblenou neighbourhood transforms into a vibrant canvas of light, illuminating the city’s façades to celebrate its history and culture. Most of the 30+ installations are open-air and free to explore, fostering a festive, participatory atmosphere, with only four set indoors.
- Installation Fosfènica (Rosa Tharrats) - From 10th Feb - 20th Mar, there will be an entrance fee to enter the exhibition
- All other installations are free
- 7th - 9th February
- City Centre
- More info
BCN Sports Film Festival
- Free
- 17th - 25th February
- City Centre
- More info
Other activities
Free museum days
As a tribute to the Patron Saint of Barcelona (Santa Eulàlia), several local museums are open to the general public for free during the festivities. Not only that, but a select number of museums offer free entry on specific days throughout the week or month. Check out our detailed guide below for more information!
Go Skiing
Grab your skis and goggles – Barcelona is just a short trip away from some fantastic ski resorts!
During the Winter months, the Pyrenees offer a great alternative to the crowded Alpine resorts, with quieter slopes and a more family-friendly atmosphere. The closest options (La Molina, La Masella, and Port del Comte) are just two hours from Barcelona by car or train. Check out our guide below for more information on Skiing in Catalonia!
Add a comment