Experience Catalonia: Correfoc Fire Running Festival Experience from Barcelona

Meet your guide in central Barcelona and head off by luxury minibus to a village in the countryside or on the coast. During the journey, which lasts no more than 1.5 hours, learn about the history of correfocs and their place in Catalonian tradition. Each festival is unique to the village it takes place in, so no correfoc is ever the same.

The time-honored Catalan tradition started in the 12th century, under the name el ball de diables (the dance of devils). Deriving from medieval street theater, the dance represented the fight of good over evil, and soon whole towns took part – with village centers decked out to represent hell and villagers dressed as the devil.

Arriving in the village, you’ll be greeted by colorful street decorations and partying locals. Most of the festivals have a religious meaning behind them and your guide will talk through some tales of the Christian and pagan influences on the shows. Typically locals wear red and black costumes with masks and horns, and carry effigies of dragons that are designed to ward off evil spirits. Take time to explore the village at leisure, soaking up the atmosphere before the outdoor show starts.

The experienced native guide shows the outfits and special clothes “devils” wear, how they light their sparklers and firecrackers, and explains secrets and details behind this centenary and unique tradition; which is strongly connected to the history of the town. You can take it all in from the side lines or get involved the same way a local does and surrounded by locals.

Typically, a correfoc lasts a couple of hours, and the show consists of a dazzling fireworks display in tune to live drum beats and folk music with gralla (Catalonian flute) tunes. The local devils wave sparklers and firecrackers around, dancing and running around in the middle of a shower of sparks. Stand back and watch the crazy festivities with your guide, or get involved and run with the devils between the crowds.

At the pre-arranged time, head back to your minibus for the relaxing journey back to Barcelona.