Julianna Flanagan, Sophomore
Located in Catalonia, Spain, the festival La Mercè is celebrating its 150th year of honoring the Virgin of Mercy. Starting on the 23rd of September those gather in Barcelona for this annual festival that will last a week. Some may question how La Mercè began. On September 24th the Virgin of Mercy appears to three men at the same time in the middle of the night. One a king and the other two Saints. She gave them orders causing a religious war. A long time after this occurred, it is said she had shielded Barcelona from an incoming plague of locusts saving all. Due to this action she was named the patron saint of Barcelona. Following this, festivals were held annually in honor of her and all she did for Barcelona. The festival didn’t become popular until 1901 and now around 2 million people go to celebrate the patron saint of Barcelona.
The main events occur on the 24th, although throughout the week-long celebration there can be up to 500 events. The most famous and known events that people go to watch and participate in are “the human towers”, “the procession of the fire breathing dragons”, and “the giant parade”. The human towers of the castellers are said to be as tall as possible. Performances take place in the Gothic Quarter which will fill up with thousands of people to watch. The procession of the fire breathing dragons, also known as Carrefoc, will also take place at nightfall. Those who have visited state that fire-breathing dragons along with dangerous devils and monsters march the streets. Others walk around with fireworks in hand filling the night with fun chaos. Though fun, the Carrefoc can be dangerous and scary especially for children. Early in the day there is another Carrefoc but much safer so children can experience the event as well. Another popular event is gigantes where giants will march through the roads dressed as kings and queens, or nobles and saints. Following close behind are flutes and drums as the giants dance and jump in circles.
Last year people who were extremely involved in La Mercè and made a lot of their money participating in it struggled due to COVID. This year, hopes are high that people like live musicians and artists will be able to gain the income they are used to from this event. There are plans this year for around 114 artists to come and perform. Overall, Barcelona is excited for everyone to come out and celebrate the 150th anniversary of this event packed festival, especially due to the tough times last year. Now, in 2021 La Mercè is back and better than ever!
Sources
https://www.catalannews.com/culture/item/la-merce-2021-everything-you-need-to-know-about-this-year-s-concerts
https://www.barcelona.de/en/barcelona-la-merce.html
https://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/events/la-merce/barcelona-la-merce.html
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