Correfoc

Often the most striking event in Catalan festivals, like Barcelona's biggie, La Mercè (Sep 24), the 'correfoc', or 'fire run' represents the epic battle between good and evil. 'Colles de diablos', or groups of devils, dance to drums, push giant beasts through the streets and light fireworks on pitchforks. The devil dancers then weave through the crowd spewing sparks everywhere. Banned for over 30 years under Franco, the correfoc tradition came back ferociously in 1979. Now attended by thousands during each annual Mercè festival, this celebration fills the streets with fire and festivity. - we've reccommended a safer spot - remmeber to wear longer tee shirts, as sometimes sparks can get close.