La Merce

1. Arrival
2. Nights
3. Guests (Age 10 and Over)
4. Children (Under Age 10)

The city of Barcelona says goodbye to the summer and welcomes the autumn with a spectacular city party. Le Merce festival, in honour on the city's patron, the Virgin of Mercy, is a collection of music, street festivals and traditions, and takes place around the last week of September.

At night watch out for the 'Carrefoc', a procession of large dragons and other creatures spitting fireworks, flanked by Diablo's, devils, with 'Catherine Wheel' fireworks on their heads shooting sparks into the crowds.

During the day marvel at the 'Castellers', the skilled men, women and children that climb each other to create human castles, with the crowd cheering as each new level of person is reached.

There is so much going on, all over town, at all times, so check it all out at the tourist office, but not to be missed are the fireworks at Barceloneta on the beach, and the 'Piromusical ', music, fireworks and the Magic Fountain at Placa d'Éspanya.

If you are wondering where are the best apartments in Barcelona to stay for the Merce festival, then have a think about the noise! If you want to be at the heart of it then be prepared (bring ear plugs!) otherwise think about being away from La Rambla and maybe more in Eixample.