Once a year, Barcelona celebrates La Mercè, honoring Our Lady of Mercy while bidding farewell to summer with days of vibrant street festivities. It’s the perfect time to experience the full spectacle of Catalan culture: sparks from fireworks flying through the air, endless displays lighting up the beach, towering human castles, and encounters with devils, dragons, and giant figures roaming the city’s streets. The photo captures a moment from the Giants Parade during the 2023 La Mercè festival.