World Book Day<\/a> became an internationally recognized day just a few decades ago (William Shakespeare also died on this same day in 1616). However, Catalans have been commemorating Cervantes on the 23rd of April since the 1920s.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCelebrating Sant Jordi in Barcelona<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Today, Sant Jordi is a day of love and literature, comparable to Valentine’s Day. Although, it is cooler because it involves books! The streets are filled with vendors selling roses, and bookstores throughout the city set up sidewalk stands for book signings and special discounts.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Dozens of authors take advantage of Sant Jordi to promote their work, and museums, government institutions, libraries, and schools hold different conferences and workshops relating to the world of literature. People usually leave work early to spend the afternoon on the streets of Barcelona.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Will you be in Catalonia on Sant Jordi?<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Whether you’re in a small town or the capital, there will no doubt be a lot going on through Catalonia on this special day. In Barcelona, Plaza Catalunya, Rambla de Catalunya, and Passeig de Gracia are the most concentrated areas of celebration. Although if you’re not one for crowds don’t worry! You can still get plenty of Sant Jordi spirit by simply walking around any given part of the city. We kid you not, you will see roses everywhere. Enjoy it! You may also see the Castellers if you’re lucky performing around the city. Take a quick peek at some of their amazing talents!<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n