Barcelona is renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious food. But beyond the world-class sights, there is a quirky side of Catalonia that tourists often overlook.
From outrageous festivals to bizarre customs, Catalonia has an array of traditions that will make you scratch your head and laugh in equal measure. Whether wandering the winding streets of the Gothic Quarter or exploring the sun-drenched beaches of the Costa Brava, here’s a fun look at some of the craziest Catalan traditions you won’t find in a typical tourist guide.
Here’s an overview:
The Human Towers: Castells
One of the most iconic and mind-blowing Catalan traditions is the Castell—a human tower that’s as tall as it is impressive. Castellers, or the people who participate in this tradition, work together to build a tower of humans, with the base composed of burly men and the higher levels made up of smaller, lighter individuals. The whole structure teeters as it rises, and when it reaches its highest point, a small child—often no older than six or seven—climbs to the top and raises a hand in victory.
This tradition dates back to the 18th century in Catalonia, and today, it’s a highly competitive event, often held during festivals like La Mercè (Barcelona’s annual city festival) or other regional celebrations. The sight of these precarious human structures is one you won’t soon forget, and it’s an experience that perfectly encapsulates Catalonia’s daring spirit and sense of community.
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The Caga Tió: The Pooping Christmas Log
When it comes to weird traditions, nothing beats Caga Tió, the Catalan Christmas tradition that involves a log with a painted face, legs, and a red hat. But wait—it gets weirder. On Christmas Eve, children “feed” the log daily with sweets and treats, while covering it with a blanket. Then, on Christmas Day, they gather around the log and hit it with sticks, shouting, “Caga Tió!” (“Poop, log!”) until sweets and small presents mysteriously fall out.
While this may seem strange to outsiders, for Catalan kids, it’s one of the highlights of the holiday season. The Caga Tió adds an element of playful mischief to the Christmas festivities, and though it may seem like something out of a children’s fairy tale, it’s a tradition taken very seriously by local families.
Related read: Celebrating Christmas in Barcelona Like a Local
The Calçotada: The Onion Feast
In Catalonia, the arrival of calçots—a type of green onion—signals the start of the winter festivities. Every year, around January to March, locals gather for a “Calçotada,” a barbecue feast where these onions are grilled to perfection over an open flame, then dipped into a rich romesco sauce (made from tomatoes, nuts, and garlic).
Eating calçots is not a dainty affair. You won’t find anyone politely nibbling these onions with a fork and knife. Instead, Catalans peel them with their hands, then devour them by the bunch, often while sitting at long tables in the countryside, surrounded by laughter, wine, and camaraderie. It’s not just about the food, though—the experience is all about getting your hands dirty and sharing a good time with friends and family.
Related read: Barcelona in January: Why it’s the Best Month to Visit
The Sardana: The Catalan Circle Dance
If you find yourself in Catalonia during the summer months, especially in the town squares of Barcelona or Girona, you’ll likely witness the Sardana—a traditional Catalan circle dance. The dancers, often in large groups, form a circle and hold hands, moving in time to the music, which is provided by a small orchestra called a “cobla.”
The Sardana has deep roots in Catalonia and symbolizes unity and regional pride. While it may look simple, the dance involves complex steps and intricate footwork. When performed with dozens of people participating, it’s a sight to behold. Whether you join in or watch from the sidelines, it’s a great way to connect with the local culture in a fun, interactive way.
Related read: Barcelona Facts We Bet You Didn’t Know
Correfoc: The Fire Run
Correfoc is not for the faint of heart. This thrilling event, literally meaning “fire run,” takes place during many of Barcelona’s major festivals, such as La Mercè or Sant Joan. In Correfoc, people dress as devils and run through the streets, brandishing firecrackers and sparklers. The aim? To create an almost apocalyptic scene of chaos and fire, all in the name of celebration.
Crowds gather to cheer on the devilish participants, who set off fireworks and run between them, creating a spectacular display of fire and light. The flames, sparks, and occasional explosions are certainly exciting—but it’s all in good fun, and locals take great pride in their ability to navigate the fiery chaos.
Related read: Barcelona in September: Events and Activities
The Fiestas of Sant Joan: A Night of Fire, Music, and Madness
The night of Sant Joan (June 23rd) is another Catalan tradition that is equal parts fun and wild. It’s celebrated with a massive street party in Barcelona, as well as fireworks, bonfires, and plenty of cava (Catalan sparkling wine). This night marks the arrival of the summer solstice, and it’s a time to let loose and enjoy the longest night of the year.
People head to the beaches with friends and family to jump over bonfires, set off fireworks, and enjoy the warmth of summer. It’s one of the most exciting nights of the year in Catalonia, and it’s as much about celebrating the changing seasons as it is about having a good time.
Related read: The Feast of Sant Joan Barcelona 24th June
A Blend of Fun and Catalan Traditions
Catalonia is a land of cultural richness, and its traditions are a mix of the historic, the quirky, and the downright fun. From human towers to fireworks, bizarre Christmas customs to wild summer parties, there’s something about these Catalan traditions that makes them unforgettable.
Whether you’re here for a day or a week, take time to embrace the local festivals and quirks—they’re a huge part of what makes Catalonia such an exciting and memorable place to visit. So, grab your sticks, prepare for some firework-filled fun, and get ready to experience the crazy side of Catalonia!
