Planning a trip to Barcelona in October 2026? Wondering what to do in Barcelona this October or looking for the best events, festivals, and activities in Barcelona? October is a fantastic time to explore this vibrant Spanish city, with pleasant autumn weather, exciting cultural events, food festivals, art exhibitions, and unique local celebrations.
From the Barcelona Oktoberfest and Bravas Food Festival to the International Boat Show, contemporary art fairs, and Halloween celebrations, the city is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Discover our selection of the 10 best things to do in Barcelona in October 2026, including must-visit festivals, cultural highlights, and exciting events you won’t want to miss!
1. Barcelona International Show Jumping
2. Barcelona Tattoo & Urban Culture Festival
3. Barcelona Bravas Food Festival
4. Hostafrancs Neighbourhood Festival
5. La Rambla Flower Festival
6. SWAB Barcelona Contemporary Art Fair
7. Barcelona Oktoberfest
8. Barcelona International Boat Show
9. Creepy Halloween Family at Poble Espanyol
10. Barcelona Open House Weekend
Do you like horses, or are you simply drawn to the idea of watching a high-level competition live? For a few days, the Real Club de Polo becomes the stage for one of Europe’s most important equestrian events, with top-level riders competing for the Nations Cup. For many people it’s a unique and special experience.
Tattoo artists from all over Europe come to the city to showcase their work live, from classic styles to much more experimental ones. Besides the live tattoo sessions, there are exhibitions, music and an artistic atmosphere. If you’ve been thinking about your next tattoo for a while, here you can find some of the best tattoo artists in the world.
If you’re a food lover, Brava Fest is the ideal place to enjoy one of the most typical dishes of Spanish cuisine. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants offering patatas bravas made with different recipes. The restaurants compete for the title of best bravas of the year.
The city of Barcelona is known for its street festivals, such as the Festa Major d’Hostafrancs. For several days, the Hostafrancs neighbourhood fills up with concerts, street parties, activities for children and food stalls right in the street. The atmosphere will undoubtedly be authentic and family-friendly, far removed from the usual tourist scene of the city!
Between processions, religious tradition and music in the streets, this festa major combines history and popular celebration in a single weekend. It’s not one of the best-known events outside the neighbourhood, but that’s precisely why it keeps an authentic character that you can feel in every corner! If you’re looking for a fun activity, this is definitely a good option.
Galleries from all over the world gather in the city of Barcelona to present painting, sculpture, photography and much more experimental works, accompanied by talks and meetings with artists and curators. A fair designed so that everyone can get closer to contemporary art and learn something new.
Bavarian tradition lands in the city for a few days. There are stalls with typical German food and performances that recreate the spirit of the original festival. A simple plan, ideal for going out with friends and enjoying a pleasant space, German food and cold beers.
From sailboats to luxury yachts, Port Vell fills up with all kinds of vessels for one of the most important nautical events in the Mediterranean. Besides the exhibition, there are on-water trials and activities for both industry professionals and simple curious visitors. You don’t need to be thinking about buying a boat to enjoy strolling among them.
Looking for a Halloween plan you can bring your little ones to? The venue is transformed for the occasion with themed decorations, games and shows designed especially for children and families! Between costumes and themed corners, the whole family can have fun and see the little ones’ smiles. 🎃
For just one weekend a year, buildings normally closed to the public open their doors to show off their beauty, from private homes to institutional headquarters or private artists’ studios. Many visits even feature architects who explain the details of the project in person. A perfect event for curious minds, who can visit places that are usually only seen from the outside.
Photo: Dorian D1
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