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This festival takes places during 19th til 24th September in the centre of this fantastic city at various sites. A festival not only dedicated to the cultural aspect of Barcelona, but the fun aspect, this festival has been running since 1902 and is definitely worth a visit!
This street party is held in honour of held in honour of Mare de Deu de la Merce, the Patron Saint of Barcelona. Perhaps my favourite part of the festival is the Giants Parade (23rd to 24th). These giants with effigies of kings, queens and nobles march through the streets of Barcelona. These huge figures tower above the crowds and spin around and around so the crowds can see them in all their glory. The Parade is often accompanied by small percussion groups that beat out a rhythm on drums as the Giants go by.
On 21st Sep, the castellers takes place. This is the formation of a human tower, (which takes a lot of planning and practice), where a child is then invited to climb to the top, a skilled and slightly dangerous act, I can tell you! However, the suspense is wonderful and the crowds go crazy for this festival gem which normally takes place in Plaza Jaume.
Festivities aren’t just kept on the ground either, La Mercé also celebrates the sky with static hot air balloon flights, kite displays and other aerial exhibitions taking place throughout the festival on the city’s beaches. Keep your eyes peeled for discounts and free entrance to many of the city’s museums, including; the Picasso museum, the Museum of History of Catalonia, the Maritime Museum and many more. For other exciting features of the festival, check out the Centro de Cultura Contemperanea de Barcelona where you can view street theatre, Moll de la Fusta which will be giving centre stage to numerous circus acts and Plaza St Rei where various dance troupes and performing artists will be performing.
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