On October 12, Spain celebrates its National Day, known as the Festa Nacional d’Espanya or Dia de la Hispanitat in Catalan. This day commemorates the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus in 1492, a milestone that shaped not only Spanish history but also global history.
It’s an official holiday, meaning schools and shops are closed, and people have the day off. While large military parades take place in Madrid, Barcelona has its own way of marking the occasion. In this post, I’ll tell you more about this day and what you can expect if you’re in Barcelona on October 12.
Spain’s National Day
Spain’s National Day is celebrated on October 12, marking the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s so-called discovery of America in 1492.
The National Day was first officially celebrated on October 12, 1892, to honor the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s discovery. Over time, the celebration evolved. In 1918, under King Alfonso XIII, the day was named Día de la Raza (Day of the Race). During Franco’s rule in 1958, it was renamed Día de la Hispanidad, symbolizing Spain’s global cultural legacy.
In 1987, the holiday was officially renamed Día de la Fiesta Nacional de España, or Spain’s National Day.
When is Spain’s National Day Celebrated?
Spain’s National Day, or Día de la Fiesta Nacional de España, is celebrated annually on October 12.
How is Spain’s National Day Celebrated?
The main event of the national celebration on October 12 is the military parade in Madrid, attended by the government and the royal family. Zaragoza, home to the Fiestas del Pilar, is another hotspot during this holiday.
In Barcelona, however, the celebrations are more subdued. For many people in Catalonia, this day is not seen as a cause for celebration, as it is associated with colonialism and dictatorship. As a result, there are few events related to the National Day, apart from some demonstrations and gatherings.
What to Do on Spain’s National Day in Barcelona?
While Spain’s National Day isn’t celebrated on a large scale in Barcelona, there are still a few activities you can enjoy, such as visiting museums or attending street festivals. Additionally, demonstrations by both Spanish and Catalan groups often highlight the diversity of Spain. Here are some things you can do:
1. Attend demonstrations
If you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Spanish National Day, you can attend one of the demonstrations held in Barcelona. These often take place on Passeig de Gràcia, Plaça de Catalunya, and Plaça d’Espanya.
Keep in mind that there are both pro-Spanish and pro-Catalan demonstrations, recognizable by the flags carried by participants.
👉 Read more about the Catalan flag.
2. Visit the Columbus monument
Christopher Columbus, the discoverer of America, is honored in Barcelona each year on October 12 with a floral tribute at his statue at the end of Las Ramblas. You can also visit the Columbus monument and enjoy a panoramic view from the top.
Be aware that there may be activists protesting at the Columbus monument around October 12.
👉 Read more about the Columbus monument and buy tickets.
3. Visit museums and exhibitions
On October 12, many museums in Barcelona remain open. The city boasts a wide range of museums with exhibitions covering history, culture, art, and science.
A recommended stop on this day is the Museu d’Història de Catalunya, which offers insights into the region’s history. Note that this museum is only open until midday on this holiday.
4. Attend festivals
You can also find various festivals on the streets of Barcelona on October 12. From food festivals like All Those Food Market to cultural events like Manifesta 15, there is plenty to see and do. Music lovers can enjoy concerts at the Barcelona Jazz Festival, and beer enthusiasts can visit the Oktoberfest in Barcelona.
5. Enjoy a walk outdoors
October often brings pleasant weather, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor walks. On October 12, you can take a stroll along the beach, in the mountains, or through the city, where there’s always plenty to see and do. For inspiration, you can refer to one of my recommended walking routes.
Tip: For a mix of nature and city life, I recommend walking on Montjuïc or along the Carretera de les Aigües in the Collserola mountains.
6. Take a day trip
If you have the time to venture outside the city, there are plenty of great spots to explore on October 12. Think of beautiful fishing villages like Canet de Mar or Vilassar de Mar, the vineyards of El Penedès, the beech forests of Fageda d’en Jordà, or the rugged coastline of Costa Brava, which is wonderfully peaceful outside the high season.
If you’re traveling with kids, visiting a theme park like Port Aventura can be fun. If you want to combine culture with entertainment, Catalunya en Miniatura is a great option.
Good to know
- October 12 is a public holiday, meaning schools, shops, and government offices are closed. Most restaurants, museums, and attractions remain open, though they may have adjusted hours. Public transportation may also be less frequent.
- October 12 is also the feast day of Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Our Lady of the Pillar), the patron saint of the entire Spanish-speaking world (Hispanidad), and is celebrated grandly in Zaragoza.
- It’s important to note that Día de la Hispanidad is not without controversy. The day evokes mixed feelings, particularly in Latin America, but also in Barcelona and Catalonia.
- If you dislike crowds, it’s best to avoid central Barcelona during the demonstrations. Museums and attractions can also be busier than usual on this day.
These are my suggestions for October 12 in Barcelona. Have you ever celebrated Spain’s National Day in Barcelona and want to share your experience and tips? Feel free to leave a comment!
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