Deadline Approaches for Press Access to La Mercè 2026
The Barcelona City Council has opened media accreditation for the upcoming La Mercè 2026 festival, which will take place from Tuesday 23 September to Saturday 27 September. Most events will be held in public spaces across the city and are freely accessible to the public, press, and photographers without accreditation. However, formal accreditation is required for journalists and media crews seeking access to restricted areas or official proceedings during the five-day celebration.
City Hall Opening Speech Access
Media wishing to cover the official opening speech at Barcelona City Hall must complete an online form available via the council’s press office. Only editors and photographers will be admitted to the Saló de Cent chamber. Requests must be submitted by Tuesday 22 September at 21:00. Confirmation by email is mandatory for entry. Outlets needing the institutional video feed should email [email protected].
Casteller Day Balcony Access
Accreditation is also required for media wanting to access the City Hall balcony during the casteller (human tower) events. Due to limited space and safety protocols, access cannot be guaranteed. Applicants will receive confirmation by email if approved. An alternative viewing platform will be available on the stage in Plaça Sant Jaume, offering full visibility of all casteller performances.
Concerts, Street Culture and Arts Coverage
Press accreditation is available for journalists wishing to photograph from the designated pit areas at La Mercè concerts, all of which are held in open public spaces. Requests must be sent by Tuesday 22 September at 15:00 to [email protected] or [email protected]. For Mercè Arts de Carrer (MAC), accreditation is recommended to facilitate filming and interviews with performers. This includes access to rehearsal activities in parks on 22 and 23 September. Requests must be submitted by the same 15:00 deadline to [email protected] or [email protected].
Media Briefing at Parc del Fòrum
A press opportunity will take place on Friday 25 September at 12:00 in Parc del Fòrum. Journalists can interview artistic commissioner Jordi Querol and capture footage of rehearsals by groups including Eunoia Kolectiv and the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe. Attendance requires prior accreditation by Thursday 24 September at 15:00 via email to [email protected] or [email protected].
Primary sources: ajuntament.barcelona.cat, Barcelona City Council, Ajuntament de Barcelona.
