Photo: Pub.Cat Group
Parade marks official start of city's biggest festival
The 'Toc d'inici', the traditional opening event of La Mercè 2026, will take place on Wednesday 23 September at 8 PM in Plaça de Sant Jaume. This ceremonial dance of giants and beasts marks the official start of Barcelona's largest annual festival, a tradition held every year since 1993. A procession featuring the City's Eagle, the Lion, the Mulassa, the Ox, the Víbria, the Dragon, the Tarasca, and multiple giant figures will depart at 7 PM from the Palau de la Virreina on La Rambla. The parade will wind through central streets before arriving in the square for performances at 8 PM. The event will be accompanied by the Ministrils del Camí Ral, a 40-member ensemble of musicians playing traditional instruments, assembled specifically for this occasion.
The 'Toc d'inici' is the symbolic heartbeat of La Mercè, bringing together centuries of folklore in one vibrant celebration.
How to watch and see the giants up close
Those unable to attend in person can watch the event live on betevé, which will broadcast a special programme coinciding with the start of festivities. Fans wishing to see the figures up close can visit the Palau de la Virreina, where the full bestiary and giant figures will be on display from 11 to 23 September and again from 25 to 27 September. Opening hours are 9 AM to 9 PM Monday to Friday, 10 AM to 9 PM on Saturdays and holidays, and on 23 September, the venue will be open from 9 AM to 3 PM.
This is a unique chance to see the craftsmanship behind the figures that animate Barcelona's streets during La Mercè.
Full festival programme available
The full La Mercè 2026 schedule, including concerts, the piromusical fireworks display, open days at cultural sites, and the festival race, is available in PDF format via the official Barcelona Agenda. Concert lineups, stage times, and family activities are also published online for planning ahead.
Reported by beteve.cat, betevé.
