subject: Festival: Diada Nacional De Catalunya [print this page] Diada nacional de Catalunya the national day of Catalonia is celebrated on the 11th of September each year to commemorate the defeat of the Catalan troops at the siege of Barcelona in the year 1714. This day is an official holiday in Barcelona and is celebrated with parades and ceremonies. People decorate their houses with flags of Catalonia and the citys atmosphere becomes festive.
This day commemorates the siege of Barcelona by the troops of Philip V of Spain which lasted 14 months. During the earlier part of the War of Spanish Succession (1701-1714), Barcelona was conquered by Archduke Charles. He was finally defeated in 1714 by the Bourbon forces. The defenders of the city were buried in a cemetery where Catalans gather every 11 September to pay their respect.
A Day off to Celebrate
This day was declared a Holiday in Barcelona by the local parliament in 1980. Most businesses are closed in Catalonia on this day but not in other parts of Spain. Public transport continues to run but at a lower capacity.
The celebration starts off with political figures placing flowers and wreaths at the graves of the Catalan heroes. This is followed by speeches and political activities, celebrations, and music. Houses are decorated with flags of Catalonia along with colorful buntings. People gather on the streets and dance to the beat of music which plays throughout the day.
Tourism and Lodging in Barcelona
People from all over Spain visit Barcelona during this time of the year to pay tribute to the great people who defended the city and died. Being a day of festival, people from all over the world come to witness the celebration and vibrant atmosphere.
Barcelona accommodation is easy to find even during the festival period as there are many hotels there which are prepared to handle the influx of tourist. Several organizations arrange sit-down dinners for families that also include special guests as well as concerts.
The Parque de Ciudadella is a place where people gather to pay homage to around 40000 Catalans who lost their lives during the war. Apart from this, concerts and parties held all over the streets can be visited and enjoyed.
Another way to enjoy this holiday is to go the beach. Barcelona beach apartments offer flexible rates and discounts to families visiting the beaches on this day. These beaches are a good place for those who want to relax and have fun at the same time.
The atmosphere on this day is the most vibrant in the year with locals as well as tourist joining in the celebrations and making this day a memorable one.
