For today, October 12, Columbus Day 2023, demonstrations and commemorative events have been organized in Barcelona.
Several unionist entities have organized events to celebrate this date of historical importance. Here are some details on how the demonstration will develop, schedules and other related events.
The festive day will begin with the traditional floral offering in front of the statue of Christopher Columbus, located at the end of La Rambla. This floral offering is organized by the entities Somatemps and DENAES and will take place at 11:00 am.
The main demonstration on Passeig de Gràcia
The main demonstration will take place at 11:30 a.m., on Passeig de Gràcia, near Carrer de Provença. The route of this demonstration will be relatively short, ending at Plaça de Catalunya, as usual. The event will culminate with a series of speeches at 12:30 pm, followed by the national anthem at 1:30 pm.
In Plaça de Catalunya, various constitutionalist organizations will set up booths, creating a small fair. During this fair, Hispanic dances will be held to celebrate culture and unity.
In addition, the far-right group Democracia Nacional will organize an act of homage to the flag in Sant Jordi square, which will begin at 12 noon.
Columbus Day 2023 in Barcelona: counter-demonstration in the city
For those who wish to express their disagreement with the celebration of Columbus Day, a counter-demonstration has also been organized in Barcelona. Under the slogan “Nothing to celebrate”, several anti-fascist entities will gather on Idrissa Diallo square.
This rally will take place at 4:00 p.m. and will begin at the Ciutadella Park, from where they will march to the Columbus Monument. There, they will join the demonstration called by the “Bloc Anticolonial de Barcelona”.
Will supermarkets open on October 12 in Barcelona?
Mercadona: Mercadona stores in Barcelona will not open on October 12, as the chain does not usually open on holidays or Sundays.
Lidl: Although many Lidl supermarkets are open on Sundays and holidays, some of its stores in Barcelona will be closed on October 12. You can check on the establishment’s website.
Carrefour: Most of the main Carrefour centers in Barcelona will not open on October 12. However, Carrefour Express will be open, as they usually operate on Sundays.
Condis: they usually follow the Sunday schedule, which goes from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. Condis Express have extended opening hours, generally until 23:00 or 00:00 hours.
Bonpreu and Esclat: The opening of Bonpreu and Esclat stores on October 12 will depend on each supermarket. Some will open, some will not.
DIA: Most are open at their usual hours, from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm on October 12, but some will be open from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm due to the holiday.
