Good news for visitors coming to Barcelona later this year — the iconic Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is finally reopening in September 2025, just in time for the city’s biggest celebration, La Mercè Festes.
La Mercè is Barcelona’s most important annual festival, held every September in honor of the city’s patron saint, La Mare de Déu de la Mercè. It fills the streets with concerts, fireworks, parades, and cultural events — making it the perfect moment for the Magic Fountain to light up once again.
After being closed since 2022 due to severe drought conditions, this long-awaited return marks a major milestone in the recovery of Barcelona’s public spaces and tourism icons.
Known for its dazzling light, music, and water shows, the Font Màgica has been one of the city’s most visited attractions for decades. Its temporary closure left many travelers confused and disappointed. Now, with improvements in the water situation and new sustainable plans in place, the city council has confirmed that the fountain will begin working again this September, although with some adjustments to save water.
Whether you’ve visited before or it’s your first time in Barcelona, this show is a must-see — and it’s completely free.

Why Was the Magic Fountain Turned Off in the First Place?

If you’ve searched for “Why is the Magic Fountain in Barcelona turned off?” in the past year, you’re definitely not alone. Since early 2022, all ornamental fountains in Barcelona — including the Magic Fountain — were shut down due to severe drought conditions affecting Catalonia.
Water reserves in the region hit historic lows, leading authorities to implement strict water restrictions for non-essential uses, including decorative fountains. The goal was to prioritize water supply for households, agriculture, and essential services.
While many tourists were surprised to find the fountain inactive, locals understood the need for responsible action. The city’s decision was based on sustainability and necessity. With over 300 ornamental fountains around Barcelona, the shutdown was part of a broader environmental strategy.

The Spanish Episcopal Conference and the Archdiocese of Barcelona have confirmed that all dioceses will observe the day of mourning with appropriate liturgical discretion. In Barcelona, this means that although Sant Jordi will be celebrated, festive and musical elements within Catholic institutions will be toned down out of respect.

What’s the Current Status of Fountains in Barcelona?

So, what’s the latest? Is everything back to normal?

Not quite — but progress is being made. As of spring 2025, Barcelona began a gradual reactivation of selected fountains across the city. The priority has been to reopen those with historical or architectural value, and those with efficient water systems, like recirculation or low flow.

By the time La Mercè arrives in September, it’s expected that over 100 fountains will be operational again, with the Magic Fountain as the flagship. The reopening process is being carried out in stages, with sustainability as the guiding principle.

So yes — while the city is still cautious, the fountains are coming back, one by one.

When and How Will the Magic Fountain Start Working Again?

The official reopening of the Magic Fountain is scheduled for September 2025, during La Mercè Festes.

The fountain will operate with a recirculation system that minimizes water usage, and shows may be shortened or scheduled less frequently to ensure environmental responsibility.

City authorities have emphasized that this is not just a symbolic return — it’s a step forward in adapting iconic public spaces to the realities of climate change.

While the exact performance schedule hasn’t been published yet, visitors should plan to check the official timetable closer to the date, as performances could vary depending on water availability.

Where Is the Magic Fountain Located in Barcelona?

If you’ve been wondering “Where is the Magic Fountain in Barcelona?” — here’s the answer:

📍 Plaça de Carles Buïgas, at the foot of Montjuïc Hill, between Plaça Espanya and the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC).
Click here to see it on Google Maps

This area is one of the most beautiful and photogenic in the entire city, especially at sunset when the fountains, steps, and the MNAC are lit up. The site is easily accessible by metro (L1 or L3 to Plaça Espanya), and a short walk will lead you right to the fountain.

Is Montjuïc Closed? Can I Still Visit the Area?

Some travelers confuse the fountain closure with Montjuïc Hill itself. To clarify: Montjuïc is fully open and always has been.

You can still enjoy:

• The Magic Fountain site (even if inactive)
• The MNAC museum
• Montjuïc Castle
• The Cable Car and funicular
• Parks, viewpoints, and gardens
  

The area offers stunning views over Barcelona and the Mediterranean. The only thing affected was the operation of the fountains, not the accessibility of the hill or its landmarks.

Is the Magic Fountain Free? What Can I Expect from the Show?

Absolutely! The Magic Fountain show has always been free of charge, and that’s not expected to change when it returns in September 2025.

The experience is magical — literally. Picture this:

• Synchronised music, water, lights, and color
• Over 7000 lights
• Over 3600 water jets
• A 20-minute show set to classic and modern soundtracks
  

Crowds gather every evening during operating months, especially on weekends. It’s one of the most impressive urban performances in Europe — and did we mention it’s completely free?

Make sure to check official timetables once they’re published in September, and don’t forget your camera.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Magic Fountain in 2025

The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is more than just a tourist attraction — it’s a symbol of Barcelona’s spirit, creativity, and resilience.

Its reopening after more than three years of silence is not only great news for visitors, but also a sign of recovery and sustainable adaptation. With the city working hard to balance tourism and environmental needs, this year’s return of the fountain is something truly special.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Barcelona this fall, make sure the Magic Fountain is on your list. It’s free, it’s iconic, and now — it’s finally back.