Gràcia gears up for first restriction-free Festa Major since the pandemic

The iconic decorated streets of the Festas de Gràcia return in full swing this August without any pandemic restrictions for the first time since 2019.

Twenty-three streets in the neighborhood will be decked out with creatively produced home-made decorations, each taking on a separate theme, for a week from August 15. The festival is known for its famous decorations made entirely out of recycled materials that residents and neighbors put together, with each street competing against one another to make the most impressive designs and constructions.

For the first time this year, the program will include a new festive figure called the “Lion of Gracia” (Lleó de Gràcia, in Catalan) and there will be guided tours around the bell tower. 

Gràcia residents are eager to celebrate the Festas this summer after the last edition was marked by the fifth Covid wave. According to the organizers, Gràcia Festa Major Foundation and Gràcia District have worked together during the past few months to offer “a wide range of open, plural and participatory activities” to everyone visiting the area during the festival.  

The traditional Festa Major parade will be held from Plaça de la Vila on the 15th of August. Back this year are also concerts on various stages scattered throughout squares in Gràcia including on Carrer Bailèn, Joanic, Plaça del Sol, Plaça del Diamant, and Plaça de les Dones del 36

Other venues such as the Vila de Gràcia Library, the Ateneu de Fabricació, and the Punt Verd Tabuenca will also host events.

Workshops and educational activities

A five-day gender workshop hosted by the Tram Cultural Association will be held at Plaça del Sol. “Festa de Gràcia wants to be a safe, inclusive and feminist party, a party free of sexist aggression,” the organizers explained.

Regarding historical activities, the tours around the bell tower are a major new highlight this year, as well as the presentation of a plaque honoring Barcelona writer, journalist, and suffragette, Rosa Maria Arquimbau.

A sustainable festival

Organizers of the Festa Major de Gràcia 2022 also want to maintain their commitment to sustainability. As in previous years, reusable plastic glasses will be used again to remove disposable plastics. Moreover, there will be a program of environmental education activities.