We will be in Barcelona June 23-26 and I see that June 23-24 are holidays. What can we expect in the way of closures on those days? On the flip side, what are some special things we should take advantage of during the holiday? I am going to need to tweak our plans, I think. We are a family of four adults (kids in their 20's) and it is our first time in Barcelona. Suggested itinerary? We arrive by fast train Thursday, June 23 at around 1pm. We fly home out on Sunday, June26.
Posted by
Barcelona (Catalonia)
2942 posts
June 23rd is a regular day.
June 24th is indeed a public holiday, but as a tourist that doesn't really affect you much as many attractions and museums will be open. Shops are nevertheless closed -except for small convenience stores.
In the evening of the 23rd, at 7pm, the Canigó Flame reaches the heart of the city, in Plaça Sant Jaume. There it is received by city authorities and a party follows up with the dance of the Eagle and of the 'Gegants de la Ciutat' (City's Giants), and 'coca' pastry and drink.
More: http://lameva.barcelona.cat/culturapopular/en/festivals-and-traditions/festival-characters-and-elements/flama-del-canigo as per the giants: http://lameva.barcelona.cat/culturapopular/en/festivals/festival-imagery
On the night of the 23rd expect many fireworks (and firecrackers too) as it's the celebration of the summer solstice. In Barcelona, it used to be (still is) traditional to head to the beaches downtown with friends and have a picnic there... unfortunately though, these days there are too many morons that just go to get "wasted" (=drunk). Still, worthwhile dropping by, even if for a moment, just to see it. Also, in the past there used to be plenty of bonfires across many districts of the city, but these days, due to health and security regulations, there are fewer. Have a look here for all the info you might need: http://lameva.barcelona.cat/culturapopular/en/festivals-and-traditions/nit-de-sant-joan
PS: Yeah, before anyone cracks a bad joke... no guys, "coca" has nothing to do with what some of you might be thinking of :)))) "Coca" is a pastry made with sugar, flower, eggs... but no trace of that "other" coca, LOL! Get acquainted.... https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coca_(pastry)
Posted by
OP
GA, USA
59 posts
Fantastic information!! Thanks so much!