The best music festivals in Barcelona
From architectural wonders to world-class cuisine, Barcelona remains a gem when it comes to culture, lifestyle, and activities. The same can be said for the city’s music festivals, where lovers of all genres assemble to revel in everything from golden oldies to ultra contemporary tunes.
Add in the picturesque scenery and venues and it’s no wonder that every year brings forth a wealth of music festivals in Barcelona catering to a variety of tastes. Let’s discover some of the most popular musical events exclusive to the Catalan capital.
Via Thefourohfive.com
1) Sonar festival
Founded in 1994, Sónar Festival is one of the most celebrated and widely respected music festivals in Barcelona focusing on the electronic and alternative genres. Since its inception, the festival has been split into two parts: Sónar by Day and Sónar by Night.
WHEN: July
WHERE: Various locations in Barcelona
2) Primavera Sound
Since 2001, the Primavera Sound festival has reflected a wealth of different genres (such as rock, pop, indie, hip hop, and underground dance music) to cater to its eclectic audience.
WHEN: Spring (May / June)
WHERE: Parc del Fòrum
3) DGTL Barcelona
Spread across four stages, DGTL Barcelona differentiates itself by combining international names with local- and emerging artists. It’s been described as the Spanish edition of the iconic techno festival highlighting an array of vibrant underground talent.
WHEN: 23 – 24 August 2019
WHERE: Parc del Fòrum
4) BBF: Barcelona Beach Festival
The Barcelona Beach Festival takes electronic music to the sands of this coastal city. For more than 12 hours, festivalgoers can revel with some of the biggest names in dance music while partying in front of a high-rise stage, unforgettable sound systems, and an array of special effects.
WHEN: July
WHERE: Platja del Fòrum
5) Brunch in the Park – Barcelona
One of the music festivals in Barcelona geared up towards entertaining the entire family, Brunch in the Park brings electronic dance music to the city while also ensuring entertaining activities for the kids via inflatables, table football, educational workshops, and more.
WHEN: Every Sunday in summer (June – September)
WHERE: Jardins de Joan Brossa
6) Cruïlla Barcelona
Showcasing a spectacular collection of talent from various musical genres, Cruïlla Barcelona prides itself on bringing an eclectic celebration to the Catalan capital every summer. From Pet Shop Boys to Snoop Dogg, there are no limits to genre or generation.
WHEN: July
WHERE: Parc del Fòrum
Via Le Cool Barcelona
7) Off Sonar
Off Sonar is about more than electronic and dance music; its ‘Off-Parties’, taking place in various locations such as hotel rooftops and nightclubs, attract just as many people to Barcelona as the festival itself.
WHEN: July
WHERE: Various locations in Barcelona
8) BAM (Barcelona Acció Musical)
For over 20 years, BAM (translated as ‘Musical Action Barcelona’) has been known for bringing audiences the best emerging talents from dance, indie, electronic, rock and pop music – Catalonia-based and international. This festival always coincides with La Mercè, Barcelona’s patron saint festival.
WHEN: September
WHERE: Various locations in Barcelona
9) Circuit Festival
Since 2008, Circuit Festival has helped Barcelona become an international gay capital during the summer months. With live music, dancing, and celebrating cultural diversity, this festival is enjoyed over 11 fabulous days.
WHEN: August
WHERE: Various locations in Barcelona
10) Guitar Bcn
Even though Guitar Bcn is one of the music festivals in Barcelona focusing exclusively on a six-string instrument, it offers a widespread collection of sounds, performers, and styles.
WHEN: September
WHERE: Various locations in Barcelona
11) Rock Fest Barcelona
Since its first edition in 2014, top names like Aerosmith and Iron Maiden have all performed at Rock Fest Barcelona, a celebration of some of the best in rock and metal music.
WHEN: July
WHERE: Santa Coloma de Gramenet
12) Pride Barcelona
Local and global LGBT supporters partake in one of Spain’s most popular gay festivals, held annually in summer. Even though the parade is the highlight, Pride Barcelona is also known for its massive party and dance music.
WHEN: June
WHERE: Various locations in Barcelona
13) San Miguel Mas I Mas Festival
Originally starting out as a jazz festival, the Mas i Mas Festival has, throughout its 15-year history, become an eclectic celebration of blues, soul, funk, and chilled electronic music. Various spots throughout the city have played venue to concerts, including the Gran Teatre del Liceu and the Victoria Theatre.
WHEN: August
WHERE: Various locations in Barcelona
14) International Jazz Festival Barcelona
Taking place in the cooler months of the year, Barcelona’s International Jazz Festival is spread out across various venues throughout the city, ranging from the grand Palau de la Musica to intimate bars like Jamboree and Harlem Jazz Club.
WHEN: October / November
WHERE: Various locations in Barcelona
15) Festival Grec
In 2019 the Grec Festival will celebrate its 43rd edition. It is known across Europe as a jamboree of theatre performances, dancing, and music by artists from Catalonia and the rest of the world.
WHEN: July
WHERE: Various locations in Barcelona
16) Festival Jardins De Pedralbes
One of the youngest music festivals in Barcelona, the Jardins Pedralbes Festival celebrates the city’s passion for music (ranging from international acts like The Beach Boys to local stars such as Miguel Ríos), nature, and family.
WHEN: June / July WHERE: Pedralbes Palace Gardens
17) De Cajon! Flamenco Festival Barcelona
A series of Flamenco concerts, the Festival Flamenco de Barcelona De Cajón has become the most important Flamenco-themed festival in the city ever since it first started in 2006.
WHEN: January / February
WHERE: Various locations in Barcelona