Barcelona Gears Up to Host America's Cup

The Paris Olympics isn't the only massive sporting event coming to Europe this summer. From August through October, the 37th Annual America's Cup will take over Barcelona, presenting tourism opportunities throughout Catalonia. 

The entire region has prepared for an increase in tourism by upgrading its waterfront infrastructure so spectators can enjoy the regatta, enhancing security measures, and coordinating with local businesses to provide accommodations, dining, and entertainment for visitors. Barcelona and Catalonia tourism officials are also collaborating with event organizers on logistics and promoting the event through marketing campaigns. 

"Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere throughout the city, with special events, concerts, exhibitions, and festivities celebrating the America's Cup," said Mateo Asensio, head of promotions at Barcelona Turisme. "They can also explore Barcelona's iconic landmarks, museums, beaches, parks, and culinary scene, making the most of their visit beyond the sailing action." 

About the America's Cup This is the Louis Vuitton 37th Annual America's Cup, but the sailing competition is in fact the oldest trophy in international sports, dating back to 1851. The 2024 regatta's defending champion, Team New Zealand, will compete against five teams: Great Britain, Switzerland, Italy, France, and the United States.  

It all kicks off on Aug. 22 with events running through Oct. 27. There will also be a Youth's Cup running for several days in September and Women's Cup during October. The America's Cup's global sponsors include companies such as Coca Cola, Omega, Emirates, and more. 

An opportunity for all of Catalonia  This is the first year that Barcelona will be hosting the America's Cup. And though the event will be in the capital city, all of Catalonia is seizing this moment to attract tourists. Dignitaries from the area met in New York City in April to present the event to travel professionals, and all agreed on the significance of the event coming to their region. 

"There's plenty of opportunities to go and experience the different activities we have in Barcelona and in the rest of Catalonia," said Patrick Torrent, executive director of the Catalan Tourism Board, who also noted that the region is focused on improving its quality of tourism – as opposed to its quantity – and is committed responsible tourism with its blue economy. 

Torrent also promoted the Grand Tour of Catalonia, which the tourism board launched post-Covid to encourage visitors to explore not only Barcelona but all of Catalonia, which boasts 14 natural and one natural parks, 16 ski and mountain resorts, 11 UNESCO World Heritage sites, and more. 

The Cultural Regatta Tourism officials have coined the exciting events coinciding with America's Cup "The Cultural Regatta." These include a variety of live performances and an art installation at the Race Village, classical music on the beach, and the Barcelona 2024 America's Cup Ceremony at Bogatell Beach on Oct. 10, one of the most significant days of the competition. 

Barcelona has revamped its Port Olímpic to be a key center for activities during America's Cup. The renovated space will offer a stage for performances, a charging site for electric boats, and a Municipal Sailing Centre to promote nautical sports. 

The city will also hold many food festivals and markets and have cultural events galore at libraries and museums over the next few months. For those who want to learn about Barcelona's maritime history and be immersed in the culture, there will be no better time. More information can be found through Barcelona City Council and Barcelona Best Experiences.