Every 11 September, the Diada de Catalunya, Catalonia’s national day, is celebrated across the region. In Barcelona, the city fills with flags, colour and a festive atmosphere with a strong sense of identity and celebration. There are institutional events, demonstrations and a whole range of cultural activities worth knowing about if you want to experience this special day in the city.

These human towers have the ability to silence everyone watching as they are built and leave anyone seeing the final result completely amazed. They are one of the most distinctive elements of Catalan culture and tradition, and of course, the colles castelleres and their castells also take part in the Diada de Catalunya. Throughout the day, you can enjoy different casteller performances in Barcelona, a perfect opportunity to discover one of Catalonia’s most recognisable traditions and a key part of its cultural heritage.

Barcelona becomes a true celebration during the Diada. And museums and cultural institutions do not want to miss out either, joining the festivities by opening their doors free of charge. Take note, as there are several: the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC), the Museu d'Arqueologia de Catalunya and the Museu d'Història de Catalunya.

And that is not all: some of them also offer guided tours and special activities for the occasion. This is the case of the Museu d'Història de Catalunya, which organises activities related to the history of 11 September and the evolution of Catalonia throughout the centuries. The Museu d'Història de Catalunya also hosts events connected with the Born archaeological site and other heritage spaces across the city. It is advisable to check access conditions and booking requirements in advance, as some activities may require prior registration.

Some open their doors to visitors all year round, such as the Palau Güell and the extraordinary work carried out there by Gaudí; while others, such as the Palau de la Generalitat or the Parlament de Catalunya, only do so on specific occasions due to the nature of the activities that take place there.

During the Diada celebrations, some of these historic and institutional buildings open their doors to the public, allowing visitors and locals to discover their heritage. It is a unique opportunity to explore buildings that are closely linked to Catalonia’s history. We recommend checking each venue’s website beforehand for opening times and access conditions. The Palau de la Generalitat continues its traditional open day during the Diada.

The Diada de Catalunya is experienced in every street and, of course, in every neighbourhood of the city. Especially in those areas that celebrate their Festa Major during the first days of September or organise activities linked to Catalan popular culture.

This is the case in neighbourhoods such as Poblenou and Horta, where cultural events, family activities, live music and gatherings connected with Catalan traditions take place around this time of year. It is a great way to discover a more authentic side of Barcelona, where the celebrations blend naturally with the everyday life of its residents.

There will be music, of course. Different styles and something for every audience. The Diada is also celebrated with concerts and cultural events that take place across various venues in Barcelona and provide a meeting point to round off the day.

Alongside institutional events, different cultural organisations arrange musical activities every year as part of the Diada programme, with performances open to the public that complete a day marked by tradition, history and celebration.

You will not want to miss a thing. We know. We also know that, when your day exploring the city comes to an end and you realise you have been walking from one place to another for hours, tiredness will catch up with you and all you will want is to arrive at a hotel where you can feel at home. Warm and welcoming. With every convenience you need so you do not have to worry about a thing.

That is exactly what you will find when you arrive at any of our hotels in the city: Sercotel Caspe, Sercotel Rosellón, and Sercotel Ámister Art Hotel. Come in, we will be waiting for you.