What to do in September in Barcelona
Autumn is almost here and while in many parts of the world, people will start putting away their swimwear, summer outfits, Barcelona weather allows for a slow and warm transition to autumn weather. There are many new festivities coming up this month, but let’s not forget about some of the summer activities such as festivals and movie nights that are still going on. Just because summer is coming to an end doesn’t mean the party has to!
What to do in September in Barcelona?
September Bank Holidays
La Diada
The National Day of Catalonia, also known as ‘Diada Nacional de Catalunya‘ or simply ‘La Diada’, is celebrated annually on the 11th September. This is a day where Catalan nationalists will pay their respects to fallen soldiers who died defending the city of Barcelona during the siege of 1714. Demonstrations in support of Catalonia’s independence are common, in addition to festivities where traditional Catalan cuisine, culture, and music are shared.
La Mercè (Festa Major de Barcelona)
The History of La Mercè
La Mercè is often called the ‘festival of all festivals’ in Barcelona, and for good reason. It’s a giant celebration made up of many smaller ones, where the city’s artists, musicians, and performers come together to fill the streets with everything from traditional dances to cutting-edge shows.
The celebrations run from the 23rd to the 28th, with the main feast day is 24th September, and since 1871 it has been an official city holiday. It dates back to 1687, when Barcelona was hit by a plague of locusts. The city leaders turned to La Mare de Déu de la Mercè (the Virgin of Grace) for protection, and when the plague ended, she was declared the patron saint of Barcelona. Ever since, every September, the city honours her with one of the biggest parties of the year.
Traditions and Highlights of La Mercè
Like many Catalan festivities, giants (gegants i capgrossos) and the human towers (Castellers de Barcelona) take centre stage, showcasing tradition and community spirit in spectacular ways.
Other highlights include the Catalan Wine Fair, the fiery correfocs (a dramatic fire runs), and a dazzling pyro-musical show. With around so many activities happening across the city, there’s something for everyone.
Adding an international flavour, each year Barcelona also welcomes a Guest City. For 2025, that honour goes to Manchester, which will bring its own artists, performances, and cultural showcases, including music, dance, and even giant bee figures, to share with locals and visitors alike.
BAM Festival
Part of the La Mercè celebrations, the BAM (Barcelona Accio Musical) Festival brings the city to life with a week of free open-air concerts across Barcelona. From 23rd to 28th September 2025, you’ll find performances spanning electronic, pop, indie, rock, and experimental sounds. With stages spread throughout the city and a line-up featuring both international acts and emerging local talent, BAM offers something for every music lover! And the best part is, it’s all free.
- Free
- 23rd-28th September 2025
- City Centre
Cursa de la Mercè
Another highlight of La Mercè is the Cursa de la Mercè, one of Barcelona’s most iconic running events. Taking place on Sunday, 21st September 2025, drawing thousands of runners to the streets. Participants can choose from the classic 10 km race, the shorter 2 km route, or the Cursa Familiar, a fun and inclusive run designed for families of all ages. It’s the perfect mix of sport, tradition, and community spirit.
- 5-7
- 21st September 2025
- City Centre
ELS40 Pop La Mercè Concert
Closing out the month is one of the most anticipated free concerts of the year: the ELS40 Pop La Mercè 2025 show at Platja del Bogatell. On Saturday, 27th September 2025, top artists including Mama Dousha, Vicco, Doctor Prats, The Tyets, and Beret will take the stage, alongside DJs from ELS40. Expect a massive beach party atmosphere, with thousands of people celebrating music under the stars as La Mercè draws to a close.
- Free
- 27th September 2025
- Platja del Bogatell
September in Barcelona: Festas
As summer fades, Barcelona’s festive rhythm continues in September with more community celebrations. Poblenou, Horta, and Barceloneta all host their own Festa Major, turning neighbourhood plazas and streets into vibrant spaces filled with music, dancing, and cultural displays. Each celebration highlights the unique identity of its barrio, making September a great time to experience the diversity of the city.
- Festa Major de Poblenou, Festa Major D’horta, Festa Major de la Barceloneta
- Free
- Several locations
September in Barcelona: Art & Culture
This September marks the 30th anniversary of L’Aquàrium de Barcelona, and the city’s most famous underwater attraction has had a spectacular makeover to celebrate. The highlight of the renovation is the largest digital floor in Europe, a 300 m² immersive experience that makes you feel like you’re walking across the ocean itself. With a €15 million investment, the aquarium has become more interactive, educational, and sustainable than ever. Whether you’re visiting with family, exploring with friends, or just looking for a unique escape into the marine world, now is the perfect time to rediscover one of Barcelona’s most beloved attractions.
Barcelona Gallery Weekend
Later in the month, the city slows down for a celebration of creativity with Barcelona Gallery Weekend. Across four days, top galleries open their doors for exhibitions, guided tours, and performances, giving visitors a chance to experience Barcelona’s vibrant contemporary art scene.
- Free
- 18th-21st September 2025
- More info
La Setmana del Llibre en Català
This week is all about… you’ve guessed it; books! Book lovers should not miss Catalan Book Week, a celebration of Catalan-language literature. First held in 1983, the event has grown into a large-scale fair with over 200 exhibitors, book launches, readings, and workshops for both adults and children. This year it will overlap perfectly with La Mercè festivities. The event is free for everyone.
- Free
- 19th-25th September 2025
- More info
September in Barcelona: Other events
Extreme Barcelona Festival
Adrenaline kicks off the month with the Extreme Barcelona Festival. Hosted at Fòrum Park, this action-packed event showcases world-class skateboarding, BMX, scooter, and breakdance competitions, making it one of Europe’s leading urban sports festivals.
- Free
- 5th-7th September 2025
- Fòrum Park
- More info
European mobility week
Barcelona will once again join European Mobility Week. The initiative promotes sustainable transport and eco-friendly urban living, with more than 100 activities organised by the City Council, local associations, and community groups. Expect bike tours, family workshops, street activities, and plenty of opportunities to rethink how we move around the city.
- Free
- 16th-22nd September 2025
- More info
Add a comment