FEBRUARY IN BARCELONA: WHERE CULTURE, CARNIVAL & CUISINE COLLIDE!

February in Barcelona offers a refreshing blend of calm and excitement. The streets come alive with local Carnival celebrations, adding a festive touch to the quieter atmosphere. Don’t forget the unique tradition of barbecuing oddly shaped onions in the countryside with friends and family (definitely a must-try)! Before the season starts to pick up in March, February provides an opportunity to enjoy the city like a true local, making it the ideal time for sightseeing and immersing yourself in Barcelona's vibrant culture.

?? FEBRUARY IN BARCELONA

1. Fewer Crowds, More Local Vibes – February brings a relaxed and authentic feel to Barcelona. With fewer tourists, you can wander its charming streets, visit iconic landmarks, and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere without the usual hustle and bustle.
2. Festivals, Lights & Carnival Delights – February in Barcelona is a month of celebration, from the dazzling Llum BCN light festival to the vibrant Santa Eulàlia festivities. As the city glows with creativity, the energy ramps up with Carnival’s colourful parades, lively music, and extravagant costumes. It’s the perfect time to embrace the festive spirit, dance in the streets, and experience Barcelona at its most exhilarating.
3. Cal?ots, Wine & Winter Warmers – February is peak cal?otada season, where locals gather to feast on flame-grilled cal?ots dipped in romesco sauce. Pair this with a visit to the Barcelona Wine Week, and you’ve got a month of delicious discoveries.

?? IMPORTANT DATES

Santa Eulàlia - 12th February

Celebrate Barcelona's co-patron saint at the Santa Eulàlia Festival! The city comes alive with concerts, parades of giants, thrilling correfocs, castells and traditional dances. It's a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in local traditions and community spirit.

?? FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS

BARCELONA WINE WEEK (BWW)

Barcelona Wine Week is Spain’s top wine event, uniting leading producers and industry experts. While aimed at media and professionals, it also offers wine lovers tastings, workshops, and expert-led sessions, making it a must-visit for those eager to explore Spain’s finest wines.

• 3rd - 5th February

LLUM BCN

Experience the city in a new light (literally)! This annual event transforms Barcelona's urban spaces with mesmerising light installations and projections. Typically held in the Poblenou district, Llum BCN showcases the talents of artists who use light to create immersive and interactive experiences.

• 7th - 9th February

eDREAMS MITJA MARATó BARCELONA

The eDreams Mitja Marató Barcelona is one of the city’s premier half-marathon events, attracting a diverse mix of participants, from athletes striving for record-breaking times, to amateur runners looking to challenge themselves in a world-class race. It's a fantastic way to experience the city's streets alongside thousands of fellow runners.

• 16th February

CARNIVAL

Sitges Carnival, one of the world's top 10, attracts over 250,000 visitors for a week of vibrant parades, lively shows, and non-stop parties. Known for its inclusivity, Sitges’ LGBTQ+ community plays a major role in shaping the festivities. With drag shows, concerts, fireworks, and traditional dances, the town transforms into a 24/7 celebration of diversity and joy.

• 27th February - 5th March

Looking for more recommendations and events this month? Head over to Barcelona Expat Life for the latest tips and updates to make the most of your February in Barcelona!

We'd love to hear how you enjoy February in Barcelona - share your favourite experiences and tips in the comments!