Part of the Catalan tradition and culture lies in the fiesta. Some doubt that tradition can survive the “demands” of the market. Barcelona merges the old traditions it has built and displays them magnificently alongside the new. It’s use of lighting/projection is 2nd to none. These are some of the “events” that tourists and residents alike are attracted to and they flourish.

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The SARDANA DANCE.

400 years minimum of tradition, banned during the Franco regime, the Sardana Dance is a typical traditional summer event. The band sits on the steps of the Cathedral and Catalans dance in the Placa Nova below.

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CASTELLERS.

This is something to see. Perhaps a throwback to conquering all those castles where there were high walls to climb ! Nothing begins until the ambulance arrives ! Then up to 150 people make a human pyramid often 8 people high – usually with a young under 10 climbing to the top. (wearing crash helmet it’s o.k.). There are local neighbourhood teams in local and Cataluna wide competition.

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MONT JUIC FOUNTAIN.

Mt Juic attracts a constant stream of tourism, Barcelona Olympic site, 1929 World Exhibition, El Palau, Operating all summer nights.

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La MERCE FESTIVAL.

4 days of fiesta to mark the end of summer on the equinox, traditional processions and instruments to techno Barca does them very well. The traditional medaeival section is maintained by a strong community input, many practice days.

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The equinox fiesta sees packed squares and laneways to maintain the Merce tradition.

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Impressive deconstruction and re invention of a traditional building, the government offices.!

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ANTI NUCLEAR march W.E.D. 2011 becomes a fiesta.

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TORRE AGBAR New Year light show.

This lightshow has a great young following and the presentation gives a whole new way of looking at the Torre Agbar. Jean Nouvel’s building has many energy efficient innovations, and as a social benefit thousands clammer round for the best view.       New Years Eve 2008. See the daytime photos of Torre Agbar HERE.

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