Festivals, Tradition and Culture in Catalonia

Dates: February (7 to 18 February 2026)
Location: Sitges, near Barcelona

Sitges Carnival is one of the most anticipated events in Catalonia. Internationally renowned, it brings together spectacular floats, extravagant costumes, music and endless joy in an unforgettable week-long celebration. One of the highlights is the famous Rua de l’Extermini parade.

Insider tip: Complete your experience with a stay at the luxurious Hotel ME Sitges Terramar, offering unbeatable views of the Mediterranean and just minutes from the heart of the action.

Dates: Second week of May
Location: Girona

Each spring, Girona blossoms – quite literally – during Temps de Flors. The city’s patios, streets and monuments become a breathtaking floral canvas, blending art and nature in stunning harmony. One standout experience is the guided night tour, which offers a magical perspective on the illuminated floral installations.

Insider tip: Book a table at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Massana to complement your visit with a refined culinary experience.

Dates: Third weekend of May
Location: Lleida

This much-loved gastronomic festival is a celebration of the humble snail – an iconic ingredient in Lleida. Locals and visitors gather in a joyful, rustic atmosphere to share traditional dishes, such as caragol a la llauna (snails in a tin). The event also offers exclusive cooking workshops led by renowned Catalan chefs, where attendees can discover regional recipes firsthand.

Insider tip: Stay at the Parador de Lleida, a historic hotel housed in a former seventeenth-century convent, for an experience packed with character and charm.

Dates: Corpus Christi (3 to 7 June 2026)
Location: Berga

Declared as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, La Patum is a captivating celebration where fire, music and dance come together in an ancestral spectacle brimming with emotion and symbolism.

Insider tip: Check the official programme in advance and arrive early to secure the best spot to enjoy this one-of-a-kind ritual.

Dates: First Saturday of July
Location: Calella de Palafrugell

Set beside the Mediterranean, this romantic festival celebrates the havaneres – seafaring ballads brought from Cuba to Catalonia. A nostalgic and intimate evening, it brings locals and travellers together through song and sea breeze.

Insider tip: End your night with dinner at Tragamar, a seafront restaurant known for its elegant setting and refined take on local cuisine.

Dates: 15 to 21 August
Location: Gràcia neighbourhood, Barcelona

For one week each summer, the streets of Barcelona’s Gràcia district transform into open-air art installations. Neighbours compete to create the most fantastical themed decorations – resulting in an explosion of colour, imagination and community spirit. Music, food and culture fill every corner. Private guided tours offer a deeper look into the artistry and traditions behind the decorations.

Insider tip: For a stay to match the beauty of the festival, book a room at Hotel Casa Fuster – an Art Nouveau masterpiece on Passeig de Gràcia, within easy reach of the celebrations.