Festivals and Events in Barcelona

Located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea; Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain. The city traces its origin to the Roman times and the old quarters of Barcelona still bear the traces of these early Roman settlements. Culturally rich, the festivals and events in Barcelona are a major attraction for the denizens of this city.

Held annually in the month of June; Sonar festival is a much sought after music festival of Barcelona. This festival continues for three consecutive days and during the duration of the festival; musicians from all parts of Spain gather at Barcelona to display their talents. The music festival is divided into day and night performances. Sónar By Day is held near Les Rambles but the venue of Sónar By Night is located outside proper Barcelona city area. However the festival is not only about music. Multimedia artists too display their innovative sound mixing and editing masterpieces.

Barcelona Early Music festival is an important event in the city's musical calendar. First started in 1977; this festival began with singers and musicians unknown in Spain. The festival at first was thus looked with apprehension and the obvious Europe bias of the organizers was vehemently criticized. You can listen to musicians playing instrumentals like Spanish guitars, banjo and violin at this festival.

In the honor of La Merce, the Patron Saint of Barcelona, the Festes de la Merce music festival is held in Barcelona. During this festival, almost all the city streets get converted into music venues. Starting every year in the last week of September, this week long music festival sees live music stages erected at strategic locations in the city. The folkloric Catalan festival events are staged in the old parts of Barcelona and in Saint Jaume as well.

Festival de Sant Joan is an important event in Barcelona. Held every year on June 24 on the Ibiza island; the spirit of this festival is electrifying. The whole island plunges into celebration. Singing, dancing and various other types of competitions are held during this festival. The impressive fireworks display forms a major part of the attraction.