A parade of demons quickly descends into a crazed run through town as folks try to stop them in their tracks – while dodging firecrackers, obvs. There’s also a castell competition, which sees teams racing to form human towers up to 10 people high.
Why: Actually taking place over several days (beginning September 20), this festival marks the end of summer and celebrates the feast day of the patron saint, the Virgen de la Mercè. Still very much a local celebration, it encompasses music, fireworks and big, colourful performances.
Do it beause: If you’re fed up of being pelted with tomatoes, or can’t summon the energy to outrun a stampede of angry bulls, then this festival is just the ticket. Sit back and leave the stunts to the seasoned pros while guzzling local booze and food.
Septemer 24
merce.bcn.cat
