Correfoc—La Mercè 2024

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Photo by Xavi Torrent courtesy of Ajuntament de Barcelona (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0).

The correfoc (fire run) is one of the most anticipated celebrations of La Mercè, when the devils and a host of fire beasts from all over the city emerge from the underworld and make their way along Passeig de Gràcia, turning it into a sea of sparks.

La Mercè's correfoc begins with the ceptrotada, when each group’s most spectacular ceptrots (sceptres), pitchforks and banners are lit, with Llucifer (Lucifer), Diablessa (she-devil), Diable Gros (Big Devil) and other unique characters.

The lighting of the ceptrotada is the prelude to another pyrotechnic display, the lighting of porta de l’infern (Hell's gate) by La Satànica of Sant Andreu—a true celebration. Hell's gate is built specifically for La Mercè's correfoc; when the pyrotechnics burn out, the gate opens and devils, dragons and fire beasts begin to pour out. The correfoc has begun!

For the best views of the show and to enjoy it safely, it is recommended to find a spot along the route on Passeig de Gràcia from Carrer de Provença to Carrer de Consell de Cent

What to Do for La Mercè

Celebrated in the days surrounding September 24th, the La Mercè festival program is packed with things to do and see. From parades and exhibits filled with gegants (giants), capgrossos (bigheads) and fire-breathing beasts to giant castells (human towers), traditional dances, correfocs (fire runs), drone light shows, fireworks displays and free concerts, you're sure to find something to delight and amaze you.

But if all the festivities of La Mercè get to be a bit too much, why not take a culture break? Many of the city’s museums observe the holiday with a jornada de portes obertes (open doors). To make the most of your time, take a look at our interactive map with all the locations that are throwing open their doors for free: Map of Barcelona Museums with Free Entry for La Mercè.

See our Guide to La Mercè for a list of the festival's events and discover the story behind one of the biggest celebrations on Barcelona's calendar and the many traditions that make this beloved Catalan holiday so special.

For more events during the Festes de la Mercè check our online events calendar.