There are traditions that, far from being somber, are celebrated with an explosion of color, flavor, and remembrance. As the end of October approaches on the Barcelona calendar, the remembrance of the deceased finds an unbeatable gathering place in Mexico—around a good meal. That festive spirit is the driving force behind the fifth edition of Taco Fest, which this year pays tribute to one of Mexico’s most iconic celebrations: the Day of the Dead.
From October 23 to 25, the former Estrella Damm Factory on Rosselló Street—ten minutes from the Sagrada Familia—will be transformed into an authentic, immersive festival. The event, organized by EatStreet, LocalLove, and BCNMÉS, will bring together fourteen of the city’s top taquerías over three days, combining street food with live mariachi music, folk traditions, and the unmistakable spectacle of lucha libre.
From cochinita pibil to pork in a Chinese box
The backbone of the event is, without a doubt, tacos. True to the spirit of street food, the restaurateurs will offer at least one affordable option, ranging from 3 to 6 euros per serving. The menu, which includes gluten-free and vegetarian options, ranges from the most traditional recipes to contemporary fusion. Thus, classics like tacos al pastor, carnitas, birria, and cochinita pibil will share the grill with seafood creations, fish tacos, Chamako’s “smash taco,” and the Warike Project’s Chinese-style box-roasted pork.
A total of 14 leading establishments will be firing up their grills this year: La Mafia Mexicana, Tacos Guzmán, Tope – The Hoxton Poblenou, El Mangood, Herencia, Warike Project, Adelita Botanero, Piñata Cantina, Tacos Muñoz, Salsa Street Food, Maíz Maíz, La Costa, Cádiz x México, and Taquerías Tamarindo. To top it all off, Casa Dulce will add the finishing touch by baking the essential Day of the Dead bread.
An altar, catrinas, and nine rounds in the ring
Beyond the kitchens, the venue will become a showcase for Mexican culture. A large Day of the Dead altar will dominate the space, with unmistakable figures such as the catrinas and the catrín wandering through it. The soundtrack will feature various DJ sets and live mariachi performances, while the terrace will be reserved for mezcal tastings, available starting Friday afternoon and throughout the weekend.
The highlight of the entertainment will come from the ring, with nine scheduled bouts of authentic lucha libre. In addition, the festival will feature face painting for the little ones and a market curated by La Revuelta and Fantastik Bazar, perfect for finding folkloric items and unique handcrafted treasures. All of this is supported by brands such as Estrella Damm, Gran Malo, Jarritos, Goya, Ojo de Tigre, and DEFRENTE.
Tickets and schedules—no waiting in line
As a major new feature of this fifth edition, the organizers have made advance tickets available for 8 euros—an option designed to help you skip the lines. This pass includes fast-track access, one drink, and a guaranteed seat in the wrestling match of your choice.
For those who decide to show up at the last minute, general admission at the box office will cost 6 euros (admission is free for children under 10). From there, you can add the wrestling pass for an additional two euros, provided there is still capacity available. Doors will open on Friday, October 23 (from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.), and the party will continue on Saturday, October 24 (from 12:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.) and Sunday, October 25 (from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.).
