Festes de Santa Eulàlia 2026
By Charlotte Stace
The Festes de Santa Eulàlia is Barcelona’s wonderful winter festival. Why does the city hold this young patron saint in such high regard? Well, Eulàlia, a 13-year-old girl, was martyred in the early 3rd century AD for defying the Romans and refusing to renounce her faith. In her honour, for a few days each year, the streets fill with that unmistakable “festa major” energy: the locals come out in force, neighbourhood pride on display, and plenty of reasons to join in.
This year brings a packed programme across the city that blends processions, culture and live performances from local bands and DJs. Highlights include the Santa Eulàlia Parade, traditional folk dancing, correfocs, and free entry into the Sagrada Familia.
One must-see event in the programme is the Santa Eulàlia Gòspel Experience. It brings big choir energy into the mix and adds a soulful, uplifting soundtrack to an otherwise gloomy February.