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Barcelona Poesia 2026 transforms the city into a stage for verse and music
Barcelona is preparing for a week in which poetry will change the rhythm of the city. From 14 to 21 May, Barcelona Poesia 2026 will roll out a programme that will bring recitals, routes and shows to cultural spaces and urban corners, turning every day into a different experience for residents and visitors.
The festival will be held at venues such as Museu Frederic Marès, Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria and Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona, together with gardens and foundations that broaden the event's reach. The idea is clear: to take poetry out of traditional spaces and bring it closer to diverse audiences across the city.
Participants include established figures such as Dolors Miquel, Francesc Parcerisas and Biel Mesquida, alongside performers such as Emma Vilarasau and Josep Maria Flotats. Music will also take centre stage with artists such as Marina Rossell and Ferran Palau, in a constant blend of word and sound.
One of the key moments will come on 18 May at Saló de Cent with the presentation of Premi de Poesia Jocs Florals, which this year recognises Martí Sales i Sariola. The closing will take place on the 21st at Palau de la Música Catalana with Festival Internacional de Poesia, one of the cultural calendar's most eagerly anticipated events.
This year's edition, curated by Manuel Forcano and Anna Gual, embraces a diversity of styles, generations and languages. Inspired by the figure of Blai Bonet, the programme seeks to reflect different perspectives on the contemporary world.
Beyond the venues, the festival transforms the city: it activates public spaces, connects cultural institutions and creates new ways for people to come together. During those days, Barcelona does not merely host poetry; it integrates it into everyday life, turning streets, courtyards and auditoriums into places where the word takes centre stage.