On Sant Jordi Day (April 23), you'll find a few institutions in the city celebrating with their doors open. One is the Ajuntament de Barcelona (City Hall). You can visit the Escala d'Honor, the Galeria Gòtica and the building's centrepiece (and oldest part), the famous Saló de Cent, accompanied by figures from local history. Coinciding with the Open Day, the Ajuntament will once again sell roses to benefit local charities in their patio area from 10am to 8pm. The proceeds go entirely to not-for-profit organisations. From 11am to 8pm, the Palau Savassona, home to the Ateneu Barcelonés, also opens its doors. Visit the library, garden, discussion rooms... and participate in the activities they'll have lined up. In addition, if you become a member of the Ateneu the week of Sant Jordi, they'll waive the sign-up fee. And if you're around Montjuïc, the Museu d'Arqueologia de Catalunya is also taking part in the Open Day, and you can get in for free from 9.30am to 7pm.
Sant Jordi (Saint George) is the patron saint of Catalonia, and although his saint's day (April 23) isn't a public holiday, it's always a celebration. Don't expect saints clutching swords or dragons dripping blood: it's a day for lovers, authors, book signings and rose stalls.
Tradition dictates a rose for her and a book for him. But nowadays the rules are more flexible – women like to read too! Getting your hands on a rose couldn't be easier. In fact it's hard to find a corner in the city that hasn't been invaded by impromptu stalls. Book-givers are in luck too as there are nearly as many book stalls as rose sellers, with discounts and signing sessions by local and international authors in the temporary marquees that line the main streets.
Sant Jordi is one of the favourite festivals for locals. The new spring sunshine is here and everyone takes a break from the workday for a stroll among the flowers and books. But during this special day, there are also loads of other activities on. You can find book-exchange markets, concerts, poetry recitals, artesanal book fairs and more. Get the most out of Sant Jordi, whether it's your first or your twenty-first!
