Welcome to 'Time IN Barcelona' on this vibrant Tuesday, September 24, 2024. As we step into the final days of September, Barcelona is buzzing with energy and excitement. The weather is still warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities, and the city is alive with the festivities of La Mercè, one of Barcelona's most iconic celebrations.

Today, the city is in full festival mode. Here are a few key events you won't want to miss:

- **La Mercè Festival**: This five-day festival, honoring the city's patron saint, Virgen de la Mercè, continues today with a plethora of activities. Catch the **Giants Parade** at 18:00, where giant effigies of kings, queens, and nobles march through the medieval streets, accompanied by lively percussion groups.
- **Castellers Day**: If you're in the city center, head to Plaça Sant Jaume to witness the awe-inspiring human towers built by the Castellers. This event is a highlight of La Mercè and showcases incredible teamwork and skill.
- **Correfoc**: While the main Correfoc event was yesterday, the festival still offers various street performances and fire runs in different parts of the city. Be sure to wear protective clothing if you plan to participate.

For those looking for something a bit different, **Extreme Barcelona** might have wrapped up, but the city's gastronomic scene is thriving. Check out **Born Street Food**, which transforms the Born district into an open-air feast with local chefs, live cooking demonstrations, and fresh produce.

In local news, the city is gearing up for the elections to the Catalan Parliament on September 27th, but this won't disrupt the festival activities. New restaurant openings are also on the horizon, with several eateries in the Gothic Quarter and El Born area offering fresh culinary experiences.

For a must-do activity today, consider taking a stroll through the Gothic Quarter to soak in the festive atmosphere. Don't miss the **Giants & Beasts of “Seguici Popular de Barcelona”** exhibition at Palau de la Virreina, where you can see the colorful giants and beasts up close.

Here’s a local tip: To navigate like a local during La Mercè, make sure to arrive early at popular events and use public transport, as the streets can get crowded. Also, don’t forget to try some traditional Catalan sweets and drinks available at the festival stalls.

Looking forward to tomorrow, the **Barceloneta Festival** kicks off, offering more traditional correfocs, castells, and a vibrant street party atmosphere. Stay tuned for more updates and exciting activities in Barcelona.

Until next time, enjoy the magic of La Mercè and the endless energy of this beautiful city