Barcelona is preparing for one of those weekends when staying at home should be punishable by law . From February 12 to 15, the city will be decked out in its finery (and costumes) to celebrate the Festes de Santa Eulàlia 2026. But this year is no ordinary edition: the calendar has decreed that the solemnity of “Laia” will go hand in hand with the revelry of Carnival, giving us one of those festive coincidences that happen very rarely in life.
If you like a good party, take note, because between the 425th anniversary of the Gegants del Pi and the Taronjada, the center of Barcelona will be buzzing with popular culture. Here’s what you need to know to survive and enjoy this marathon of traditions in equal measure.
A crazy Thursday: when Laia met Carnival
The starting gun will be fired on Thursday, February 12, and it promises to be epic. On the one hand, we will have the Passejada de les Laies, which will start at 6:30 p.m. from the Palau de la Virreina. It is that magical moment when the city’s giantesses take center stage. But the surprise comes at 8:40 p.m. in the Plaça de Sant Jaume.
Just as the Laies finish their dance, the spirit of Carnival will make its appearance. Although the bulk of the Taronjada (that symbolic battle of orange confetti and revelry) is moving to the Sants neighborhood this year, Sant Jaume doesn’t want to be outdone. There will be a special tribute with the dances of Rodanxó and Rodanxona and a fireworks display to signal that, yes, we are now officially in full party mode.
The golden (and wooden) anniversary of the Gegants del Pi
If there are any undisputed stars in 2026, it’s the Gegants del Pi. These figures, which are practically institutions in Barcelona, are celebrating no less than 425 years. To give you an idea of their importance, the first mention of the giant dates back to 1624; they have seen everything happen on the streets of the city.
Sunday, February 15, will be their big day. Starting at 7:00 p.m., they will leave from the Plaza del Pi in a historic parade accompanied by distinguished guests from outside the city, such as the Mulassa de Tarragona and the Cavallets de Lleida. Seeing them dance in Sant Jaume is one of those experiences that reconciles you with the city, no matter how many tourists you’ve encountered along the way.
Fire, castells, and music for all tastes
As with any good Barcelona festival, the smell of gunpowder is a must . Saturday the 14th is the day of the Correfoc de Santa Eulàlia. The little ones will have their own version at 6:30 p.m., but those who prefer real sparks will have to wait until 8:00 p.m. It’s time to get out your old cotton clothes and let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of the drums.
For those who prefer music without having to jump around in sparks, the agenda is packed. On Friday the 13th, Lali Jove will take over Avenida de la Catedral with a powerful lineup that includes Flashy Ice Cream and Les que Faltaband, with a clear message against racism and in favor of diversity. If you’re looking for something more traditional but still lively, that same night in Sant Jaume, La Coixinera will be performing as part of the Festival Tradicionàrius.
Free culture and open doors
Beyond the street party, Santa Eulàlia is the perfect excuse to visit those places we always leave “for later.” As is tradition, many of the city’s museums will hold open days. You can see the festive imagery exhibitions at the Palau de la Virreina (where all the “Laies” are) or visit the Born CCM to see the children’s giants.
In short, it’s the perfect weekend to rediscover why Barcelona, even in February and in the cold, still has the best atmosphere in the Mediterranean.
Are there any public holidays in Barcelona?
Unfortunately, these festivities, however much fun they may be, are not official holidays for the people of Barcelona, but simply very enjoyable days. However, most schools take Monday off to celebrate Carnival, so parents and, above all, their children will have a reason to be happy with the upcoming long weekend.