Day Minus 2 (Camino II): Barcelona

One year after walking the Camino de Santiago, we are back in Spain. There were definitely withdrawal symptoms at the end of the last trip and perhaps the decision to return represents a bit of addiction. But we had plenty of time to think about it rationally and we really want to finish what we started. This time, it will be from St Jean Pied de Port in France, the traditional starting point, to Leon, which is where we started last year.

Barcelona again serves as a good entry point into Spain. Other than a day trip to Monserrat tomorrow,  there had no activities planned in Barcelona. But the person next to us on the plane alerted us to a "fire run" happening today.

At the baggage claim, I quickly look this up on the internet: "Correfoc" (Fire Run) as part of the annual La Merce festival.  "Bring a hat... recommend protective eye gear ... wear a thick long-sleeve non-inflammable top ... " OK, count us in!

Check in at the hotel at 5:30pm and we are on Via Laietana by 6:45pm. So much for rest after a transatlantic flight. Fire sparks are flying already. The air is thick with smoke. People are three rows deep but I somehow manage my way to where the action is. The pictures tell the rest of the story.

"Fire Run" at La Merced Festival, Barcelona

 

Sparks everywhere, and this is still just a junior parade, a milder version

 

 

Just a block off the mayhem is some tranquility

A choral concert a block away. Did not understand a word but it is clearly patriotic on this day celebrating the patron saint of Barcelona

some desperate spectators

 

kids are more poised about their choice seats

 

Back to the parade: a dragon generously spreading sparklers

Sparklers that landed on my head and skin stung but no visible burn, thank God. Probably micro dermal abrasion, though.

 

 

This would normal be nice fireworks to end the event, but the adult portion of he fire run is just starting. It was time to go back and get some rest.