Key Sardana Events During La Mercè 2026

Sardana dances, a cornerstone of Catalan cultural expression, are set to feature prominently during La Mercè 2026 in Barcelona. Organised by the Ajuntament de Barcelona and cultural groups including SomSardana, the events will span multiple days and locations, celebrating both tradition and community participation.

Thursday 24 September: Cultural Gathering in Plaça de la Mercè

At 18:00, an evening sardana dance will be held in Plaça de la Mercè, performed by the Agrupació Cultural Folklòrica Barcelona accompanied by Cobla La Principal del Llobregat. This event follows earlier festivities including the Puntaires’ Gathering and the Cavalcada de la Mercè, reinforcing the day’s focus on local heritage.

Saturday 26 September: Performance at Sagrada Família

On Saturday, 26 September, from 11:00 to 13:00, the Cobla Sant Jordi-Ciutat de Barcelona will perform outside the Sagrada Família, specifically on Carrer de la Marina facing the Nativity Façade. The performance is part of a broader cultural activation in l’Eixample district, with dancers convened by SomSardana. Accessibility for people with reduced mobility will be ensured at the venue.

The surroundings of the Sagrada Família will come alive with music and dance, showcasing the richness of Catalonia’s festive heritage.

This event coincides with other popular culture activities in the area, including the ceremonial opening of La Mercè celebrations earlier in the week.

Sunday 27 September: 76th Competitive Sardana Dance Festival

The highlight of the sardana programme arrives on Sunday, 27 September, with the 76th Competitive Sardana Dance Festival, starting at 11:00 on Avinguda de la Catedral near Barcelona Cathedral. According to the official festival programme published by Barcelona City Council, this long-standing competition brings together sardana dance groups (colles) in a display of precision and unity. Later that day, at 13:00, a non-competitive sardana dance will be led by the Federació de Colles Sardanistes de Barcelona, also with musical accompaniment from Cobla La Principal del Llobregat.

  • Thursday 24 Sep: 18:00 – Plaça de la Mercè
  • Saturday 26 Sep: 11:00–13:00 – Outside Sagrada Família (Carrer de la Marina)
  • Sunday 27 Sep: 11:00 – 76th Competitive Sardana Festival, Avinguda de la Catedral
  • Sunday 27 Sep: 13:00 – Community sardana dance, Avinguda de la Catedral

All events are free and open to the public, inviting residents and visitors to join or observe one of Catalonia’s most emblematic traditions.

Historical Context of Sardanes at La Mercè

The sardana has been part of La Mercè celebrations almost continuously since 1902, when it was introduced as a major expression of Catalan folk culture. Originating in the Girona region, the dance evolved into a symbol of collective identity and resilience. Its inclusion every year underscores the festival’s commitment to preserving intangible cultural heritage, as highlighted in city publications.

Primary sources: ajuntament.barcelona.cat, barcelona.cat, Ayuntamiento de Barcelona. Reported by vilaweb.cat, sagradafamilia.org, planomato.com, lavanguardia.com, Betevé.