Public holiday in Spain
National Day of Catalonia in Spain
Friday, September 11, 2026
Regional public holiday
Observed in Catalonia
National Day of Catalonia is a public holiday in Catalonia, Spain, observed on 11 September. It marks the fall of Barcelona in 1714 and is the main civic day associated with Catalan identity.
About National Day of Catalonia in Spain
The day is specific to Catalonia and is observed across the region rather than in Spain as a whole. It is both a public holiday and a major civic date in the Catalan calendar, with strong political and cultural meaning for many residents. The observance centers on Catalan history, language and symbols, and it is especially visible in Barcelona and other major towns.
History
National Day of Catalonia commemorates 11 September 1714, when Barcelona fell during the War of the Spanish Succession after a long siege. The defeat marked the end of Catalan resistance to the Bourbon forces and the loss of the region’s institutions and laws. The date became a symbolic remembrance day, and it was later established as Catalonia’s official national day in the late 20th century.
Traditions
One of the most characteristic customs is the offering of flowers at monuments to Rafael Casanova, a figure associated with the defense of Barcelona in 1714. The senyera, the Catalan flag, is widely displayed, along with other symbols of Catalan identity. Public speeches, concerts and cultural events often feature the Catalan language.
How National Day of Catalonia is celebrated in Spain
Today the day is usually marked by civic gatherings, institutional ceremonies and public demonstrations in many parts of Catalonia. Some streets and public spaces in Barcelona become focal points for marches, wreath-laying and commemorative events, while families and friends may also use the day for outings or cultural activities.
Interesting facts
The holiday is usually referred to by its Catalan name, Diada Nacional de Catalunya. It is one of the most visible regional holidays in Spain and is closely associated with Catalan nationalism and self-government debates. Its date is fixed on 11 September each year, unlike movable religious festivals.
Dates in published calendars
| Year | Holiday date | Observed date | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 11 Sep 2026 | — | Catalonia |
Import sources
- Generic ICS feed
An import is not an independent verification.