5 January

Popular culture

Along with the La Mercè festivities, the Three Kings Parade is one of the most eagerly awaited and popular events on Barcelona's festive calendar. The entire city turns out for this large – and painstakingly planned – parade through the city centre streets, with a large retinue of pages, floats and choreographed pieces. It is a display of fantasy, colour and rhythm that attracts people of all ages. Pure Christmas magic created in Barcelona.

29 January

Congresses

Crossroad. Fashion in a trembling world is the thread for the 14th Barcelona Fashion Summit, the leading business event for Spain’s fashion sector.

The event brings together business leaders and sectoral experts at the Palau de la Música for top-class speeches and discussions.

Until 3 May

Performances

Antonio Díaz, El Mago Pop, returns to Barcelona with the show that has amazed New York audiences. With never-seen-before illusions and tricks in a spectacular modern set.

Antonio Díaz, El Mago Pop, will dazzle you with a set that takes you on an extraordinary journey, full of fun, sensitivity, surprises, rhythm and thrills. A large-format show that has been performed on the fantastic Broadway.

Until June

Exhibitions

The Joan Miró Foundation was inaugurated on 10 June 1975. Fifty years later, the institution marks this date as an opportunity to reaffirm its role as a cultural and creative meeting point, building bridges to the past while looking firmly to the future. Under the slogan “For the people of tomorrow”, this anniversary programme will run until June 2026 and will feature the exhibitions “Poetry Has Only Just Begun.50 Years of the Miró” and “Miró and the United States”. In addition, the Foundation will reopen the Cypress Garden to the public, a space that had previously been inaccessible to visitors.

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.

2–4 February

Fairs

More than 1.300 wineries and 85 Designations of Origin will be exhibiting their best wines at a fair that highlights the quality of Spanish-produced wines to importers from around the world.  

The Barcelona Wine Week programme also features around 100 prestigious experts who will discuss the challenges the sector is facing and unveil the latest wines.

2–8 February

Festival

Barcelona’s Noir Fiction Festival is being held in three main spaces: Paral·lel 62, La Paloma and the Mooby Cinema Bosque, with 100 authors taking part, including the likes of Dominique Manotti, Richard Price, Núria Cadenes and Guillermo Saccomanno. Sinful living provides the thread for the festival, which also includes round tables, music performances, film screenings, workshops, exhibitions, dialogues and the ceremony for the Pepe Carvalho award.

3-6 February

Fairs

Barcelona will become the global epicentre of the audiovisual sector with Integrated Systems Europe, the most important systems integration and audiovisual fairs in the world. It is the benchmark showcase of technologies and solutions in the audio, video and lighting fields and attracts the sector’s international community to the city. 

6–8 February 

Festivals

Every February, the Poblenou neighbourhood lights up for three nights with installations, projections and mappings from the best creators on the international scene. Llum BCN is one of Europe’s major light arts festivals and a big public festive occasion.

8 February

Sports

The Barcelona Trial Indoor at the Palau Sant Jordi is the seventh event in the World X-Trial 2026, which started in Andorra la Vella on 4 October and consists of ten scoring rounds. The Barcelona event, a classic indoor trial on a global level, will also be hosting the 6th Women’s Trophy Barcelona, the only scoring event in the women's FIM X-Trial Trophy 2026.

The current indoor trial champions (men’s X-Trial and women’s FIM X-Trial Trophy) Toni Bou and Berta Abellán, will be defending their 2025 victories.

12–15 February

Popular culture

Known as Barcelona’s winter festival (festa major), this family-friendly celebration pays tribute to the city’s co-patron saint, St Eulàlia, with activities for everyone: street parades with giants, fire-runs (correfocs), human tower (casteller) performances, concerts and lots more. Don’t miss the Eagle’s Dance (Ball de l’Àliga) at Santa Maria del Mar!

15 February

Sport

The Half Marathon is much more than a sports competition. It is also a day of recreation which every year invites athletes from all over the world to enjoy running on a fast circuit surrounded by monuments around some of the city’s most emblematic streets. 

28 February

Ceremony

Barcelona is hosting the 40th Goya Awards show, which will be held in the auditorium at the Barcelona International Convention Centre (CCIB).

The ceremony will be hosted by Rigoberta Bandini and Luis Tosar. Gonzalo Suárez will receive the honorary award, while Susan Sarandon will be presented with the international award. In the weeks leading up to the ceremony there will be a series of activities open to the public, organised by Barcelona City Council and the Government of Catalonia.

2–5 March

Congresses

The Mobile World Congress is the world’s biggest and most influential mobile phone and connectivity event. The most important companies in consumer electronics will be presenting their latest news and products at the congress, while key figures will be sharing their ideas and experiences.

The MWC 2026 centres on artificial intelligence, advanced networks and digital infrastructure, driving changes in business, smart connectivity, tech inclusion and the disruptive innovation that will shape the future.

2–5 March

Fairs

4YFN, the congress for start-ups, returns to Barcelona as the global benchmark for the innovation ecosystem. A new opportunity to connect investors, creators and entrepreneurs from all over the world in a unique setting: at the heart of the Mobile World Congress.

15 March

Sport

The long-distance race bar none is one of Europe’s benchmark marathons. The Barcelona Zurich Marathon is an IAAF Gold Label event and attracts thousands of runners every year who consider its little over 26 miles as one of the most spectacular routes in the world. The magic of Barcelona and sport combined in a unique experience.

15–26 March 

Music

Barcelona turns into the world piano capital for this prestigious competition aimed at promoting talented young performers from around the globe. The grand finale at the Palau de la Música Catalana is one of the most important piano events in the city. Moreover, public spaces are filled with pianos for everyone to enjoy and play throughout the event. 

19–29 March

Festivals

Discover the best contemporary, international independent and arthouse cinema at the D’A! The main attractions at this top Barcelona cinema event include award-winning films, world premières and Q&As with directors.

23–29 March

Sport

This historical Catalan bike race is a top-flight event on the UCI World Tour and fought over seven stages between Sant Feliu de Guíxols and Barcelona, with an explosive final on the Montjuïc circuit.

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.

11–19 April

Sports

Created by Carlos Godó Valls, count of Godó, and held for the first time in 1953, this tournament is an iconic event for the city of Barcelona. Grand slam champions, some of Spain's best players ever and a long list of top-ranked players in the world have written this competition’s history. Two-time champion Carlos Alcaraz, currently world No. 1, has confirmed his participation in the 2026 championship. 

22–26 April

Trade fairs

For over 30 editions now, this annual international gathering has been bringing the entire bridal fashion community (and the fashion world in general) to Barcelona.
The fashion show side of the event includes 4 days of catwalks featuring the latest collections of 37 designers, while the trade show will be an opportunity for over 400 brands to fill the BBFW venues with their latest accessories and bridal, groom and party collections.

23 April

Traditions / Culture

Every 23 April, thousands of people go for a stroll through Barcelona and enjoy one of the most special, intense and beautiful days of the year. Sant Jordi’s Day, declared World Book Day by UNESCO, fills the streets with books and roses, which are traditionally given as gifts to loved ones. Few celebrations bring the people of Barcelona together as much as this day. A cultural event not to be missed.

26 April

Commemoration

Barcelona City Council opened Park Güell as a public park on 26 April 1926, including it in the city’s network of public parks and completing the purchase of the property from the Güell family, a process which had begun in 1921. Park Güell quickly became popular with city residents, hosting public events such as conferences, tours, garden parties and other activities. Inspired by one of these events, the centenary of Park Güell will be celebrated with a public ceremony open to all.

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.

15–17 May

Fairs

New edition of the unmissable event for fans of comics and graphic novels. Major international authors will be visiting the 44th edition of the fair. Over the course of three days, it will feature competitions, themed exhibitions, talks, signing events, film and videogame sections, but most importantly a great atmosphere. 

15–17 March

Sports

The MotoGP Grand Prix returns to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya to deliver its magic once again, marking what will be the seventh round of the season.

After an exciting 2025 dominated by Marc Márquez and Ducati, the rest of the grid will be looking to wrest control from the rider from Cervera. Among his toughest rivals could be his brother Álex Márquez, his team-mate Pecco Bagnaia, or Aprilia riders Jorge Martín and Marco Bezzecchi. In addition, World Superbike champion Toprak Razgatlioglu will make the step up to the premier class with Prima Pramac Yamaha, promising plenty of thrilling action. 

15–31 May 

Sport

New edition of the prestigious international regatta, once again bringing the excitement of top-class sailing to the city’s beaches. The world’s finest sailing crews will be taking part in the competition, organised by the Reial Club Nàutic de Barcelona since 1974. 

16 May

Open days

Barcelona is one of the 120 European cities taking part in Museum Night, an event linked to International Museum Day (18 May). Museums and heritage sites will be opening until the early hours for a night of culture where visitors can enjoy collections and exhibitions, as well as guided tours, family workshops, concerts and recitals.

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.

3–7 June

Music

Three days of concerts featuring the best independent music at the Fòrum Park, with The Cure, Doja Cat, Massive Attack, The xx, My Bloody Valentine and Gorillaz as headliners, alongside performances by Bad Gyal, Ralphie Choo and Depresión Sonora, among many other artists.

As is tradition, Wednesday will feature a free opening day with performances by Wet Leg, Guitarricadelafuente, Yard Act and Ouineta. To round things off, on Sunday 7 June, the closing party Primavera Bits will take place, featuring Carl Cox, Joseph Capriati, BLOND:ISH and Greta.

4–7 June

Popular culture

The Dancing Egg is a Barcelona tradition linked to the festival of Corpus Christi. It consists of making an egg “dance” on the jet of water coming from fountains in the cloisters and gardens of unique historical buildings: the Cathedral, the Museu Frederic Marès, the Casa de l’Ardiaca and the Ateneu Barcelonés. The fountains are decorated with fruit and flowers, offering fragrances and textures typical of the spring. This is a festivity that invites people to take to the streets and discover the most beautiful corners of the city.

12–14 June

Sports

The pinnacle of motorsport introduces new technical regulations: lighter, shorter and more sustainable cars. Among the other major changes, Renault has left the championship as an engine supplier, while new teams such as Audi, with its own power unit, and Cadillac, running Ferrari engines, have joined the grid.

All of this comes alongside further regulation updates, including the replacement of DRS with a continuous driver-assistance system, the presence of more rookie drivers and much more.

Fernando Alonso will be on the grid alongside many other drivers and world champions: Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, Charles Leclerc…

18–20 June

Music

Every June, Sónar transforms Barcelona into the epicentre of avant-garde music and arts, bringing together audiences, artists and professionals from around the world, drawn by innovation in content and formats across the stages of Gran Via Fair in L’Hospitalet.

This year will see premieres of shows by Kelis, British rapper Skepta, today’s leading techno queens Charlotte de Witte and Amelie Lens, the duo Modeselektor and Cabaret Voltaire, as well as DJ sets from Chris Stussy, Sammy Virji, DJ Gigola, KETTAMA, Joy Orbison, Noize and Clementaum b2b LAZA, among others.

23 June

Festivals

The night of 23 June is the “Revetlla de Sant Joan”, a magical night celebrating the summer solstice, and one of the most traditional popular festivals held in Catalonia.

In Barcelona there isn’t just one, city-wide celebration, instead all the neighbourhoods have their own bonfires and “St John’s Eve” parties at the same time. It all starts when the Canigó Flame arrives in Plaça de Sant Jaume, and then taken by runners all over the city to light the neighbourhood bonfires, which herald the start of the festivities with communal meals, firework displays featuring devils, beasts, dances, bangers and, without fail, traditional Sant Joan cake.

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.

26 June – 18 July

Festivals

The grand festive occasion standing up for LGBTI rights and freedoms is one of the most popular in Europe, attracting thousands of people every year. Packed concerts, lectures, talks, films, exhibitions and a big demonstration all form part of an extensive programme of activities to give a voice to sexual and gender diversity, make it more visible and celebrate it.

1–10 July

Music

This festival has been held in Barcelona since 2005 and features lyrical singers from all over the world. It preserves and internationally promotes the repertoire of Latin American and Iberian artistic song in Spanish, Catalan, Portuguese and indigenous languages, along with its composers and performers.  The event consists of a course in the history and interpretation of the vocal repertoire of a cycle of concerts with top-class international artists.

1–20 July

Music

This festival turns the iconic Palau de Pedralbes gardens into a unique constellation of musical and cultural experiences. This year’s lineup will feature national and international artists such as Mika, Sting, Raphael, Vanesa Martín, Diana Krall and Judit Neddermann, among others.

4–6 July

Sport

Barcelona will be hosting the Grand Départ of the Tour de France™ for the first time, the world’s most prestigious cycling race. This historical event places us on the global sports map and once again shows that Barcelona and the rest of Catalonia are committed to cycling, sustainable mobility and the spirit of sport.

The first three stages of the 2026 edition will be held entirely in Catalonia. A team time trial is being held on 4 July, covering a distance of 19.7 kilometres from the Fòrum Park to the mountain of Montjuïc. Starting from Tarragona and finishing in Barcelona, the second stage is on 5 July and covers a distance of 178 kilometres. Finally, the third stage on 6 July sets off from Granollers and covers a route of 196 kilometres, ending in Angles.

7–16 July

Music

As its name tells us, Bachcelona is Barcelona’s festival devoted to Johann Sebastian Bach. The competition features concerts and a variety of musical activities in iconic venues across Barcelona, such as the Palau de la Música, the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau and La Pedrera. Reflecting its commitment to quality, every year the festival invites the most renowned international artists specialising in Bach. 

8–11 July

Music

The Cruïlla Festival will be held at Parc del Fòrum, an unbeatable outdoor setting facing the sea and a can’t-miss event for lovers of alternative and indie music. 
The 2026 lineup features names such as Reneé Rapp, Sen Senra, Pixies, Suede, Garbage, The Hives, Two Door Cinema Club and Rigoberta Bandini, and in addition to the music, there will be comedy shows and other acts. Get ready to dance, bounce and enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience.

10 July – 5 August

Film

The summer brings us another edition of the Sala Montjuïc open-air film festival, with a selection of the season's most outstanding films, the most recent releases and the award winners, as well as essential cult and classic films, accompanied by concerts and picnics under the stars. All the films are in the original version with subtitles.

29 June – 31 July

Festivals

The history and programme of the international festival for theatre, music, dance and circus make this one of the most iconic events on Barcelona’s cultural panorama. With over 45 editions under its belt, the Grec backs exceptional artistic projects and offers a showcase for the finest local creations and the most innovative projects from stages all over the world. 

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.

1–9 August 

Festivals

Circuit is one of the largest LGBTI leisure festivals in Europe, running over nine fun-packed days on the beach with pool parties, terraces and night-time events. The event offers good music, a place to make friends from around the globe and meet new people, celebrate diversity and discover Barcelona – a city with non-stop culture and leisure attractions.

7–8 August

Festivals

This is an essential summer date in Barcelona and the biggest brunch of the year. The festival brings together the finest up-and-coming local talent along with more renowned names from the international electronic music scene, offering a varied programme where every scene has its own sound and, more than anything, will keep us moving. Two days of open-air music by the Mediterranean, in the Fòrum Park.

Film

An event to enjoy good films in the outdoors on summer nights. The programme features quality films that have been screened at renowned film festivals, and these are shown in original version with subtitles in Spanish. Each session also starts with a short film. The completely free event is held on Sant Sebastià Beach in Barcelona.

Football

If you're a football fan, this is a chance for you to watch Barça play live. The Joan Gamper Trophy is a historic tournament, where FC Barcelona will be launching the 2026-2027 season squad to fans in a friendly match.

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.

1 September

Music

The Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys welcomes one of the most influential artists on the current music scene, The Weeknd, the Canadian who has revolutionised contemporary R&B playing in Barcelona as part of his After Hours Til Dawn world tour. This large-format production features a cinematographic set with surround sound, making its way across iconic venues in America and Europe.

17–20 September

Fairs

Barcelona’s art season kicks off with this event for art lovers, collectors and professionals. This weekend, the city´s top galleries will be hosting exhibitions by national and international artists, together with presentations, performances, conversations, gatherings and guided tours. It’s a can’t-miss event for anyone interested in learning about the latest trends in contemporary art. 

Popular culture

Barcelona is La Mercè and La Mercè is Barcelona. If you want to truly experience the city’s essence, this is one of the best times to visit. Barcelona will be abuzz with its festa major, or main annual festival, one of the events Barcelona residents look forward to all year. Streets, parks and public spaces will be filled with street art shows, concerts featuring all kinds of music, gegants [giant figures], castellers [human tower builders], devil figures and fire creatures. The celebration culminates with a spectacular musical fireworks display that attracts thousands of people every year. 

4–6 September

Sport

The Fòrum Park will host one of the largest urban sports events in Europe. Fans of extreme sports and action sports won't want to miss the scooter, skate, BMX and breakdancing competitions, which will feature international stars in these disciplines. 

29 September – 1 October

Trade fairs

Internationally recognised as one of the main events for the exportation and promotion of Spanish publishing, Liber 2026 is being held at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via site and brings together 250 publishing companies from 16 countries to present their range of publications, latest releases and services linked to book sales and distribution. The fair includes the Saló de Drets, a section devoted to the sale of authorship and translation rights, plus networking activities, discussions, professional events, and the traditional awards and tributes during the Gala Liber.

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.

14–18 October

Trade fairs

The Barcelona International Boat Show, going into its 63nd edition this year, is the city’s annual sports and recreational sailing event.
The show will display a wide range of vessels, including sailing boats, yachts and catamarans, at the Port Vell. It will also feature a space for various start-ups to showcase their most transformative projects in the fields of digitalisation and environmentally friendly sailing, including electric, hybrid and hydrogen vessels.

14–25 October

Festivals

The Barcelona Design Week (BDW), the city's annual design, creativity and innovation event, is one of the world's leading events in its field. The festival, which seeks to introduce the public to the world of design, will cover areas such as social design, creativity, impact and digitalisation in an expansive programme of exhibitions, conferences, workshops and a variety of spaces open to all.

16–18 October

Food and drink

Barcelona is a market city, and Mercat de Mercats is the markets' grand celebration. This gastronomic fair focuses on high-quality, local and sustainable food and takes place in Plaça de les Glòries, where you can taste tapas prepared by some of the best local chefs, buy fresh food from the markets' suppliers and even cook it yourself right there in the barbecue area. There will also be chats, talks and show cooking by professional cooks.

24–25 October

Sports

The Challenge Barcelona Triathlon promises to exceed expectations and deliver a unique experience.This edition will retain the Middle Distance as the flagship event and introduces a major new feature: the return of the Olympic Distance, one of the most requested distances among triathletes.  Its reintroduction reinforces Barcelona’s status as a city capable of offering challenges for athletes of all levels and profiles.

The programme also includes Sprint, Junior Challenge and Aquathlon events, as well as two Open Water races.

24–25 October

Festivals

48h Open House is one of Barcelona's main architecture events. A full weekend of free guided tours in which over 250 buildings of all types, shapes and sizes in the city of Barcelona and its surrounding areas will throw open their doors to visitors. The festival is a perfect opportunity to enjoy experiences related to Barcelona's heritage, from Roman ruins to today's city, including buildings that are examples of Catalan Gothic, Neoclassicism, Catalan Modernisme and the Modern movement. 

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.

3–5 November

Fairs

The first international summit on cities and smart urban solutions brings together leading figures from companies, governments and the most innovative organisations from over 400 cities around the planet. The congress offers a three-day programme with renowned experts to share ideas and discover the best practices for a more sustainable world, plus an exhibition zone where hundreds of businesses and organisations will be showcasing their avant-garde projects and smart solutions.

3–5 November

Fairs

This international event on smart and sustainable urban mobility is held every year in Barcelona in parallel to the Smart City Expo World Congress. The congress explores mobility projects and initiatives for the future, with national and international experts and businesses, organisations and research centres looking to strengthen their capacities, increase collaboration and share solutions to speed up the transition to sustainable mobility.

4–8 November

Festivals

This November, Barcelona, a UNESCO City of Literature, will be the capital of non-realistic literature. Festival 42 provides a meeting point for creators, readers, publishers and disseminators of fantasy genres, an unmissable event that boosts connections ranging from mythology to science fiction and from YA fantasy to the most unsettling horror, featuring domestic and international authors and the latest releases. 

26 November

Shows 

Every year, Barcelona sees in the Christmas season by switching on the Christmas lights throughout the city. It is something unique to behold, full of imagination and excitement, and specially designed to kick-start the most magical time of the year. All the Christmas lights in the city are officially switched on right after the end of the show, lighting hundreds of streets and squares and filling them with a festive atmosphere and the Christmas spirit. If you come to Barcelona during the holiday season, let yourself be dazzled by the decorations in the city's most iconic places. You will be pleasantly surprised!

29 November

Sports

The Jean Bouin is the longest-running athletics race held in Barcelona and this year it celebrates in 103st edition. The race consists of a 5k and a 10k course which go through some of Barcelona's most iconic streets. The Jean Bouin is named after the French long-distance runner who broke several world records at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics.

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.

Festivities

During the month of December, Barcelona is transformed to celebrate one of the most magical festivals of the year. The city is all dressed up, its illuminated streets brimming with activities to suit all tastes. You’ll find the iconic Santa Llúcia and Sagrada Família fairs, shows, concerts and festivals for all the family, such as those in Plaça Catalunya and Plaça de la Universitat, along with traditional nativity scenes like the one at the Museu Frederic Marès and innovative alternatives such as the one in Plaça Sant Jaume. Experiencing Christmas in Barcelona is a true gift.

Barcelona has also been named as the European Capital of Christmas 2026, recognising the city’s model for celebrating Christmas. The city has announced it will continue to add routes and spaces with signature Christmas lights, the goal being to strengthen a creative and sustainable celebration, open to the whole city.

10–13 December

Sports

Barcelona becomes the international padel capital in December. The Palau Sant Jordi will be hosting the third edition of the Premier Padel Tour Finals, where the eight top pairs in the world ranking will be competing to win the last trophy of the 2026 Premier Padel circuit season.

31 December

Sport

Every year, Barcelona closes out the sports year on 31 December with a highly original and festive run which has become a true Christmas tradition in the city. The Nose Race is a 10 km event open to all which attracts large numbers of runners in a circuit around the streets of Barcelona. The event is complemented with a 5 km event, the International Nose Race 5K, exclusively for 50 professional runners and considered by many as the best race in the world over this distance. 

31 December

Festivities

Barcelona sees out the year with the most spectacular countdown from Montjuïc’s emblematic Magic Fountain. Music, fireworks, a monumental set and the most spectacular tech innovation are set to make Av. Reina Maria Cristina a really special place to bid farewell to 2026 and see in 2027. This is a show to amaze anybody wishing to celebrate a New Year’s Eve packed with magic and emotions and in the best of company.

12 February – 13 December

Architecture

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026. Over 10 months, from February to December, activities will take place across the city’s 10 districts, including exhibitions, routes, workshops, open days, guided visits, installations, conferences and competitions.

The aim is to showcase the city’s heritage and talent, while also highlighting the transformative power of urban planning and architecture.

In the summer, Barcelona will host the UIA World Congress of Architects, a major international gathering where the sector will address the challenges facing our society and reaffirm that architecture is more necessary than ever to tackle issues such as climate change and access to housing.