If you’ve just moved to Barcelona, you might notice that every September 11th the city feels different: streets fill with people, music, and activities. That’s because it’s La Diada Nacional de Catalunya, the National Day of Catalonia. For locals, it’s a meaningful date; for newcomers, it’s a perfect chance to see the city through local eyes.
A Bit of History
The day goes back to 1714, when Barcelona fell after a long siege during the War of the Spanish Succession. This defeat meant the end of Catalonia’s political institutions at the time. Over the years, September 11th became a day of remembrance and resilience.
Since 1980, La Diada has been the official national day of Catalonia. While it has a political side, for most people it’s also a mix of commemoration, culture, and celebration. Families, associations, and institutions take part, making it both symbolic and festive.
How to Experience La Diada in Barcelona
If you’re living or working here, La Diada is a great moment to experience the city like a local. Here’s what you can do:
Floral tributes:
In the morning, many head to the Rafael Casanova monument to lay flowers. It’s a traditional way of remembering Barcelona’s defenders.
Concerts and culture:
Walk through the city and you’ll find open-air concerts, traditional dances, and exhibitions. Central areas are especially lively.
Passeig de Lluís Companys & Arc de Triomf:
This is usually one of the main gathering spots. Expect crowds, music, and a festive vibe.
Food stops:
Try local flavors like pa amb tomàquet,escalivada, or crema catalana in restaurants or street food stalls. Food is always part of the experience. Food and La Diada
While La Diada doesn’t have a traditional dish linked to it, you’ll often see bakeries and cafés in Barcelona creating cakes, pastries, or sweets decorated with the Catalan flag, yellow and red. It’s not a historic custom but rather a festive way for locals and businesses to mark the day. If you want to celebrate like a local, look out for these special treats in pastry shops around the city.
Depending on the experience you want, here are three good options:
The popular spot: Rafael Casanova Monument, traditional and symbolic.
The cultural hub: Passeig de Lluís Companys & Arc de Triomf, busy, festive, and full of activities.
The unusual perspective:Montjuïc or Parc del Guinardó, quieter, with amazing views of the city in celebration.
Stay Updated
Want to know what’s happening and where?
Ajuntament de Barcelona (City Council) official programs and events just here : barcelona.cat,
If you feel like leaving Barcelona, La Diada is celebrated all across Catalonia. In Girona, you’ll often find cultural activities and concerts in the old town.Tarragona hosts parades and events in its historic center. And in smaller towns, you may come across castells (human towers), traditional dances, and local festivals. Experiencing La Diada outside the capital gives you a more regional and community-based perspective on this important day.
Local newspapers like La Vanguardia or El Periódico, useful for maps, guides, and updated schedules.
Blu Tip: Live Like a Local
You don’t need to take part in everything. Even just walking through the city, watching concerts, or joining a tribute will help you feel part of the atmosphere. The real experience is to see how the city lives this day and to connect with the traditions around you.
NB: As you walk around Barcelona on La Diada, you’ll likely spot flags that look a bit different from the regular Catalansenyera. Some have a blue triangle with a white star: this is the independence flag. For many people, the day is also a moment to express their support for Catalonia’s independence.
Why It Matters for Newcomers
For internationals moving to Barcelona, La Diada is more than just a holiday. It’s a way to get closer to the local culture, understand what matters here, and make your new home feel more familiar.
At Blu Selection, we don’t just connect talents with jobs, we also help people adapt, discover, and enjoy life abroad. Experiencing La Diada is one of those moments when Barcelona truly becomes your city too.
