Dancing in the middle of the street isn’t something you plan — sometimes the city just brings it to you. Last weekend I caught the tail end of the Born Street Food festival in Barcelona, grabbed a slice of pizza, and stumbled straight into a Correfoc: one of the most chaotic, fire-drenched, and absolutely unforgettable street celebrations in Spain. Here’s what happened, and 5 wild facts about this extraordinary tradition.
What Is a Correfoc? The Tradition Behind Dancing in the Middle of the Street
A Correfoc — which literally translates to “fire-run” in Catalan — is one of the most striking features of Valencian and Catalan festivals. A group of participants dress as devils, arm themselves with pitchforks loaded with fireworks, and parade through the streets igniting everything in their path while drumming groups keep a hypnotic rhythm going.
Spectators who want in on the action dress in full-cover protective clothing — long sleeves, hoods, scarves, goggles — and run alongside the devils through showers of sparks and explosions. Everyone else watches from the edges, pulling back when the fire gets close. It’s one of the most visceral celebrations you’ll ever witness. Dancing in the middle of the street has never felt more literal.
Born Street Food: Where the Night Started
Before stumbling into the fire madness, the night kicked off at Born Street Food — a lively outdoor food, drinks, and live music event in Barcelona’s El Born neighbourhood. El Born is one of the city’s most colourful areas, packed with tapas bars, cocktail spots, and narrow medieval streets that come alive at night. Street food markets and music events like this one pop up regularly and attract locals and tourists alike.
After a few drinks and good food, we wandered around looking for a slice of pizza — and that’s when the drums started getting louder around the corner. Then the sky lit up.
5 Wild Facts About Correfoc Fire Festivals
1. Correfoc Has Ancient Roots
The tradition dates back centuries, rooted in pagan customs that were later blended with Christian festival celebrations. The “devil” figures derive from old folk legends and are meant to represent forces of chaos and nature — not evil in a religious sense. Today they’re a beloved symbol of Catalan cultural identity.
2. You Need Protective Gear to Dance in the Middle
If you want to join the dancing in the middle of the street during a Correfoc, come prepared. Locals wear full protective outfits: long-sleeve cotton or wool tops, scarves or balaclavas to cover exposed skin, goggles, and often old clothes they don’t mind getting spark burns on. Polyester melts, so avoid synthetic fibres at all costs.
3. The Drums Are as Important as the Fire
The Correfoc isn’t just about fireworks — the percussion group (gralla players and drummers) drive the entire energy of the event. The relentless, hypnotic drumbeat creates a trance-like atmosphere that makes the dancing in the middle of the street feel instinctive. When the rhythm starts, your body just moves.
4. It Happens All Over Catalonia and Valencia
Correfocs aren’t just a Barcelona thing — they take place in cities and towns throughout Catalonia, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands during major festivals. The most famous are during La Mercè in Barcelona (September), Sant Joan (late June), and local patron saint celebrations throughout the year. If you’re visiting Spain in summer, chances are high you’ll encounter one.
5. It Looks Dangerous but Is Carefully Orchestrated
From the outside, dancing in the middle of the street during a Correfoc looks completely wild and uncontrolled. In reality, the devil groups are trained and rehearsed. The fireworks are attached to specific fixtures on their pitchforks and costumes, and the route is planned in advance. Local fire crews are on standby. It’s controlled chaos — thrilling to watch, even more thrilling to participate in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to dance in the middle of the street at a Correfoc?
As a spectator from a safe distance, yes — it’s completely safe. If you want to participate by dancing in the middle of the street alongside the devils, wear full protective cotton clothing and cover all exposed skin. Small spark burns on clothing are common; serious injuries are rare when you dress properly.
When does Correfoc happen in Barcelona?
The biggest Correfoc in Barcelona is during La Mercè festival in late September. Smaller correfocs also take place during Sant Joan (June 23rd), neighbourhood fiestas, and occasional pop-up events. Keep an eye on local event listings when visiting Barcelona.
What is Born Street Food in Barcelona?
Born Street Food is an outdoor food and drink market event held in the El Born neighbourhood of Barcelona. It features local food vendors, live music, and a festival atmosphere. It’s a great way to experience the neighbourhood’s energy alongside locals. Check local event listings for upcoming dates.
Add comment