Fiesta de Santa Eulalia 2025 in Barcelona

The Santa Eulàlia festivities, often called La Laia or Barcelona's winter festival, take place each year around February 12. The celebration has all the features of a Catalan street festival and has been popular since the 14th century. There is a parade with giants and other fantasy characters, Sardana​ folk dancers, Correfoc fire runs, etc. And finally, there will be Castells or human towers​, a peculiar Catalonian tradition distinguished by UNESCO.

More About Saint Eulalia

The festival honors St. Eulàlia, who has been the patron saint of Barcelona since the late 17th century. According to local legend, during the 4th century, the Roman Emperor Diocletian ordered a widespread persecution of Christians throughout the empire. In Barcelona, many sought refuge or fled to avoid capture. Among them was Eulàlia, a brave 13-year-old girl from Sarrià, who boldly confronted the Roman consul Dacià to denounce the injustice. Her defiance led to her imprisonment and harsh punishment, but she remained steadfast in her beliefs, ultimately sacrificing her life for her ideals.

Eulàlia's courage and unwavering commitment to justice transformed her into a powerful symbol of solidarity and the fight for righteousness. This legacy continues to be revered by the people of Barcelona.

Celebration Highlights

Key holiday highlights include the iconic Santa Eulàlia parade, impressive human towers (Castells) formed by Castellers standing on the shoulders of one another, traditional Sardana dancing, and an exhilarating fire run featuring both large and small fire beasts alongside devils.

Parade of the Giant Laia

On the morning of Saint Eulàlia's Day, the grand Laia sets off from the Palau de la Virreina and makes its way to Plaça de Sant Jaume. As it dances through the city's streets, it pauses at the vault of Santa Eulàlia, a site tied to one of her martyrdoms, to perform a ballad in her honor accompanied by its signature tune. Upon reaching the square, Laia takes its place before the Town Hall balcony, where it greets the mayor and pays tribute to the Santa Eulàlia flagstone.

Activities

The Santa Eulàlia festival is often perceived as a festival for children and includes many fun activities like storytelling, puppets, family workshops, and special concerts. Most of the events and festive activities occur in Placa de Sant Jaume. There is also a children's photography contest, "Foto Laia," and the "Premis Ciutat de Barcelona" awards for small business keepers.

Open Doors Day

On Santa Eulàlia Day, numerous museums and public and private spaces across Barcelona open their doors for free entry. Among the participating venues are the Barcelona City Council, the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, the Barcelona Botanical Garden, and many others. To enhance the festive spirit, various activities and workshops are also organized, turning the day into a true celebration.