Like every year during Carnival the city of Barcelona transforms itself to offer the inhabitants a show of colors, lights, disguises, imagination and creativity.
Carnival is one of the longest celebrations of the year.
This festival is present all over the world but includes important particularities in some countries or cities, which makes it unique. Carnival called Carnestoltes in Catalan is originally a pagan or even Egyptian festival.
Carnestoltes: It is a Latin word that means Carne levar and Carnes tolendas which means period of youth and abstinence from meat. However, during Carnival, some rules are lifted, leaving room for caloric and abundant food, such as the Coca de Llardons or the Butifarra de huevo.
On this occasion, the food is the center of the party, it allows to gather to party.
The dates of this festival vary each year because Carnival is a lunar festival. In fact, it is anchored in the cycle before the Karem and begins 7 weeks after the first moon of the winter solstice !
During this festival many activities are present in the city.
THE PROGRAM OF THE CARNIVAL 2022 IN BARCELONA
DIJOUS GRAS aka Shrove Thursday
Carnival begins with the “Dijous Llarder” or “Dijous gras” (Catalan). During this day there is first of all the arrival (Arribo in Catalan) which is the opening event. Thus, during this event there is the presentation of the King: “El Rei Carnestoltes”, the main character of this festival who is responsible for firing the gun that opens the Carnival in Barcelona.
This event is present in the following districts of Barcelona: Gracia, Horta, Les Corts, San Andreu, Sant Martí, Sarrià.
WHEN : February 24, 2022 at 18:00
WHERE : From Plaça Reial to Boqueria and Palau de la Virreina through the main avenue of La Rambla.
TARONJADA :
This event present at Carnival is actually an old tradition including dances, the presence of King Carnestoltes, a camp battle with oranges and also the Sarau de la Taronjada which is a traditional mask dance.
WHEN: Mardi Gras – February 24, 2022 at 18:45
WHERE: Palau de la Virreina (La Rambla)
CARNIVAL PROCESSIONS AND PARADES:
At the initiative of the inhabitants, colorful and festive parades are organized in the different districts of Barcelona. In each parade 7 ambassadors are present in addition to the king.
Indeed, Saturday is the day when the atmosphere is at its maximum, activities are present throughout the city so that everyone can enjoy the party.
WHEN: Saturday, February 26, 2022
WHERE: Different areas of Barcelona
BURIAL :
Known as the burial of the sardine, it is the imposition of ashes which symbolizes penitence and repentance for the crazy days of Carnival (apologizing for their excesses during Carnival).
This burial is a religious devotion that serves as preparation for the celebration of Easter. In addition, in some neighborhoods of Barcelona, associations or organizations organize a common meal to meet.
WHEN: March 12, 2022
WHERE: Different areas of Barcelona
NIGHTLIFE DURING THE CARNIVAL:
During this festival much of the atmosphere is present at night. In fact, Barcelona’s discotheques set up themes every night for Carnival.
For more information : ▷ BARCELONA CARNAVAL 2022 – Dates – Programme événements | irBarcelon