Best things to do in Barcelona for spring 2023

Ah, springtime!

That time of year when flowers bloom, days become warmer and longer, and new plans and projects are put into place. Springtime in Barcelona is a truly wonderful time!

After the winter chill has faded away, we all begin to look out for the coolest things happening in the city during the months of March, April, May and June. Well, here’s a headstart for you… TEFL Iberia’s guide to some of the best things to do in Barcelona this spring.

Primavera Sound 2023

The city’s biggest music festival, Primavera Sound will take place in Barcelona and Madrid this year for the very first time. Here in Barna the party kicks off at midday on May 29th, running until the 4th June.

If you’re lucky enough to nab a ticket, expect to see the likes of Blur, Rosalía, Kendrick Lamar, Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys and FKA twigs, among many others.

Handmade Festival 2023

This year will see Barcelona’s Handmade Festival return for its 10th edition. Featuring the creme de la creme of Catalan creators, plus the best international artisans, this captivating craft fest will feature 250 stands showcasing the work of ingenious inventors and DIY influencers, together with creative expositions, workshops and activities. 

It’s a unique experience with an important message in an era of mass production and rapid consumerism. It takes place on the 31st March, 1st and 2nd April at the Fira Barcelona, and you can get your tickets here.

The Music of Harry Potter

A tantalising treat for Potterheads, this concert taking place at L'Auditori celebrates the magic of John Williams’ incredible scores that bring so much to the series. The Music of Harry Potter will be performed by the Barcelona Symphonic Band and will feature pieces including “Harry’s Wondrous World” and “Voldemort’s End”. 

The concert takes place on 7th May. Don’t be a muggle, get your tickets here before they sell out.

Night of the Museums 2023

One for the nocturnal culture vultures – the Night of the Museums, known locally as La Nit del Museus, returns on Saturday 13th May. Over 70 museums, galleries and cultural spaces across the city will open their doors to the public, many with special events planned for the night. Some of the most popular venues include the MNAC, Picasso Museum, Sant Pau Recinte Modernista and the Montjuïc Castle. Keep an eye out for the official program, which will drop here.

Jim Jefferies Live

Best known for the viral clip of his brutal takedown of America’s gun control (or lack of), Australian comedian Jim Jefferies makes his way to Barcelona to spit some hilarious home truths as part of his ‘Give’em What They Want’ tour. Blending masterful storytelling with Aussie-slacker-style profanity, there’s plenty of heart beneath the acerbic exterior.  

If you’re a fan, be quick and snap up tickets for Jim Jefferies at the Colosseum in Barcelona… they’re going fast!   

Tast a la Rambla

The great gastronomic event of the year in Barcelona returns! At this celebration of Catalan cuisine, as well as international fare, you’ll be able to tuck into tapas and inspired dishes prepared by top local chefs and food authors. There will also be live cooking and tasting workshops to fire and inspire those creative juices!

Tast a la Rambla takes place at the bottom of Las Ramblas near the Drassanes metro station and will kick off in June. Keep an eye out on the Tast a la Rambla official website for an exact date. 

Llums d’Antiga

The fifth edition of Barcelona’s highly acclaimed classical music festival arrives this spring, featuring some incredible musicians performing in stunning venues. Taking place in three of the city’s most mesmerising medieval buildings, Llums d’Antiga transports the audience back in time over the course of six concerts spanning from 20th April to 5th May.  

The Science of Pixar

Exploring the creative process behind the studio’s classic films such as Up, Coco, Soul, Wall-E and the Toy Story series, this exhibition at the CosmoCaixa science museum runs from 17th May all the way through until September. Unpicking everything from modelling, surfaces, sets and cameras to animation, simulation, lighting and rendering, it promises to be a fascinating glimpse into the technical genius behind some of the greatest animation films of all time.    

Find out more about living in Barcelona while learning and earning as an English teacher.