Las fiestas de Gracia

If you have ever been to Barcelona you know itʼs an amazing city with lots of activities and things to offer. During the summer the Catalan people seize the city and the weather to offer us celebrations full of creativity and originality Barcelona is divided into several neighborhoods that have a particular and unique story. The neighborhood of Gracia is one the most popular ones between the young people to go out and have some fun. Each August “Las fiestas de Gracia” take place and blow away local and foreign people. These celebrations start on August 15th and last for a week or so. During these days there are expositions, mini parades, concerts of jazz, rock, classic music and many other activities for all ages.

All the neighbours of Gracia prepare the streets and balconies with recycled materials and make incredible things. This year in Mozart Street they made a giant Mozart that was lighted and decorated according to the classic music played on the stage. As I walked down the streets I could buy catalan home made jewelry or accessories. Everyone has fun as they discover the stages made by the artists and drink a mojito or caipirinha that you can buy for 3 € at the same time you meet lots of people.

For me itʼs incredible to watch the decoration made by normal people with recycled elements and the meaning behind this celebration; this tradition was born many years ago as a way to promote sharing and coexistance between the neighbours.

If you have never been to Barcelona and you are a designer, I advice you to take a plane and do so to understand that whenever you design with joy, you create experiences that cannot be money rewarded… The best payment here is a smile and laughter everywhere you look. Visca Barcelona!