Sant Jordi’s Day, celebrated every 23 April, is one of the most emblematic festivities in Catalonia, combining culture, tradition and romanticism. Based on the legend of Sant Jordi and the dragon, the celebration has become a symbol of love and literature.
During Sant Jordi’s Day, Barcelona fills up with book and rose stalls, as it is customary for men to give their partners a rose and women a book, although nowadays the two gifts are interchangeable. Barcelona on Sant Jordi becomes a huge open-air festival, with author signings, cultural activities and streets decorated in the colours of the Senyera, the Catalan flag.
Moreover, this date coincides with International Book Day, which reinforces its importance worldwide. More than just a celebration, Sant Jordi represents love, culture and Catalan identity, making it a unique event that attracts both locals and visitors to the city of Barcelona.
If you’re planning to visit Barcelona this Sant Jordi 2025, it’s a perfect opportunity to experience one of Barcelona’s most special festivities. On 23 April 2025, the streets of the city will once again be filled with books, roses and an unrivalled atmosphere, where culture and tradition come together in an authentic spectacle.
In addition to book stalls and author signings in emblematic places such as Las Ramblas, Passeig de Gràcia and Plaça Catalunya, new cultural activities, exhibitions and literary events are expected. Barcelona will be transformed into a vibrant setting, ideal for both reading lovers and those who want to immerse themselves in the essence of Catalonia.
The origin of the tradition of Sant Jordi's Day
Sant Jordi’s Day has its origins in the medieval legend of Sant Jordi and the dragon, a story of bravery and love that over time became one of Catalonia’s most representative traditions.
According to legend, a fearsome dragon terrorised a kingdom, demanding human sacrifices to satisfy his hunger. One day, the princess of the kingdom was chosen as his next victim, but before the dragon could attack her, Sant Jordi appeared, a brave knight who defeated him with his sword. From the dragon’s blood sprouted a red rose bush, from which Sant Jordi took a rose and gave it to the princess.
This story has evolved into the current tradition of Sant Jordi’s Day, celebrated every 23 April, when the streets of Barcelona are filled with roses and books. The custom of giving a rose symbolises love and passion, while the book represents culture and knowledge.
Why is Sant Jordi's Day important in Catalan culture?
Sant Jordi’s Day is not just a celebration, it is an expression of Catalan identity and tradition. The streets of Catalonia, especially in Barcelona, are filled with books, roses and a festive atmosphere that unites people around culture and love. This festival is one of the most significant for Catalans because it combines history, literature and romanticism in a single day. The tradition of giving roses and books reinforces the value of culture in Catalan society, promoting reading and the recognition of local and international authors.
Moreover, Sant Jordi is a date with a strong sense of pride and belonging, as it symbolises the connection between the Catalan people and their roots. In many places, Catalan flags (the Senyera) decorate balconies, and institutions organise cultural events and book signings with well-known writers.
Beyond being a romantic day, Sant Jordi’s Day represents the spirit of Catalonia as a land of culture, history and tradition, making it one of the most eagerly awaited festivities of the year.
How is Sant Jordi celebrated in Barcelona?
Sant Jordi’s Day is experienced in a unique atmosphere where culture and tradition take over the streets. Barcelona is filled with books, roses and special activities, making it a great open-air festival.
The most emblematic streets of Barcelona to live the essence of Sant Jordi that you cannot miss are:
📍Las Ramblas in Barcelona – The main artery where flower stalls fill every corner.
📍 Passeig de Gràcia – The main street of the Sant Jordi celebration. You can find numerous stands of renowned bookshops, where renowned authors and publishers sign their books.
📍 Plaza Cataluña – Epicentre of cultural events and literary presentations. Here you can enjoy a variety of leisure activities.
📍 Avinguda Diagonal and Rambla de Catalunya – Spaces with bookshops, publishers and florists actively participating.
One of the main attractions of Sant Jordi Barcelona is the chance to find books signed by the authors themselves. Nationally and internationally renowned writers take part in this festival, dedicating their works to readers in different parts of the city.
Bookshops and publishers set up their stalls in the main streets, offering everything from literary novelties to classics, making this day a true celebration of International Book Day.
What does it mean to give roses for Sant Jordi?
In every corner of Barcelona you can see stalls selling red roses, a symbol of love and passion. Tradition dictates that men give their partners a rose and women a book, although nowadays the exchange is mutual. Florists join in the festivities by offering special designs and varieties of roses in different colours. Millions of roses are sold every year, filling the streets of Barcelona with colour and fragrance.
Sant Jordi 2025 News
Sant Jordi’s Day 2025 promises to bring new experiences and events that will make this celebration even more special. With Barcelona as the epicentre of culture and tradition, the next edition is eagerly awaited, offering innovative activities and unique moments for locals and visitors alike.
Make a note of these key dates and activities scheduled for Sant Jordi 2025.
📍Official date: Wednesday, 23 April 2025
📍Days before: From the weekend before, many bookshops and florists will start with special events.
Among the activities planned for Sant Jordi 2025 are the traditional author signings in bookshops and public spaces, where national and international writers will meet their readers. In addition, Barcelona’s most emblematic streets, such as Las Ramblas, Passeig de Gràcia and Plaça Catalunya, will once again be filled with stalls selling books and roses, keeping the essence of the festival alive. There will also be readings and literary presentations in libraries and cultural centres, offering attendees the opportunity to discover new works and take part in meetings with authors.
Music and entertainment will be present with concerts and open-air shows in different squares around the city, creating a unique festive atmosphere. As every year, some historic buildings, such as the Generalitat de Catalunya and Barcelona City Hall, will open their doors to the public, allowing special tours and cultural activities to commemorate this special day.
In conclusion, Sant Jordi’s Day is much more than just a celebration; it is a date when culture, tradition and romanticism merge to transform Barcelona into a vibrant scene of books and roses. This festivity, unique in the world, allows locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the Catalan spirit, enjoy literary events, discover new readings and experience the charm of the city at its best.
If you are planning a visit to Barcelona, Sant Jordi is the ideal time to get to know the city in one of its most authentic versions. To enjoy the festivity in total comfort, at Hotel Grums & Spa we offer a strategic location near the centre, allowing quick access to the main points of the celebration, as well as a quiet and exclusive space where you can relax after a day of exploring the lively streets.
Don’t miss the opportunity to live a unique experience in Barcelona. Book your stay and get ready to discover the magic of Sant Jordi.