La Mercè with Kids in Barcelona: Family Guide 2025

What:
La Mercè is Barcelona’s biggest annual festival — think of it as the city’s birthday party. For one week every September, the whole city celebrates with free events: giant puppet parades (gegants), jaw-dropping human towers (castellers), concerts in every neighborhood, circus shows in the parks, street theater, fireworks, and more. It’s a unique chance for families to see Barcelona’s traditions come alive in a way you won’t experience at any other time of the year.

When:
📅 September 23–28, 2025
(Main festivities usually take place over the weekend, when there’s the most family programming.)

Where:
Events happen all across the city — from the Gothic Quarter’s Plaça de Sant Jaume to the green spaces of Parc de la Ciutadella, Montjuïc hill, and smaller neighborhood squares. No matter where you are staying in Barcelona, you’ll find something happening nearby.

Top Family-Friendly La Mercè Events 2025

Children’s Correfoc (Fire Run)

A special “kids’ version” of the traditional fire run — with sparks, light, and music, but less intense.
📍 Passeig de Gràcia (Consell de Cent → Provença)
📅 Saturday, Sept 27, 18:00
👶 Best for: ages 5+

Castellers (Human Towers)

Traditional human towers built by local teams (colles). Exciting, cultural, and awe-inspiring to watch.
📍 Plaça Sant Jaume
📅 Sunday, Sept 28, around 12:00
👦 Best for: ages 6+

Gegants, Dragons & Beasts Parades

Giant puppets, dragons, and colorful processions through the city center — full of music and Catalan folklore.
📍 City center (e.g. Carrer Pelai → Plaça Sant Jaume)
📅 Wednesday, Sept 24, around 18:00 (other parades throughout the week)
🧒 Best for: ages 3+

Piromusical (Fireworks & Music Show)

The grand finale: fireworks, music, and lights by Montjuïc fountains. A spectacular ending to the festival.
📍 Avinguda Reina Maria Cristina, Montjuïc
📅 Sunday, Sept 28, 22:00
👧 Best for: ages 10+ (due to crowds & late night)

MAC – Mercè Arts de Carrer (Street Arts & Circus)

Free circus shows, puppetry, and interactive workshops in parks. A more relaxed daytime option.
📍 Parc de l’Estació del Nord, Palauet Albéniz, Jardins Joan Maragall
📅 Throughout the weekend, mornings & afternoons
👶 Best for: all ages

Open Museums & Free Entry Days

Many museums across Barcelona offer free admission and kid-friendly activities during La Mercè. A quieter indoor option.
📍 Various museums (e.g. MNAC, City History Museum)
📅 Throughout the festival
🧒 Best for: ages 4+