Barcelona International Community Day 2024: Celebrating the City’s Work-Life Balance

Did you know that one in every four residents in Barcelona is a foreigner? This thriving international presence is what makes events like Barcelona International Community Day 2024 so essential to our city. 

This year, the free event returns for its 11th edition on Saturday, September 28th. With all the great activities, networking opportunities, and trade fair stalls we’ve come to expect as well as a few new additions, Barcelona International Community Day 2024 is the must-attend event to connect, learn, and celebrate the awesome blend of cultures that make our city so special. Read on to find out what’s on the agenda this year.

Event theme: Unique work-life balance

This year’s theme, “Unique Work-Life Balance,” celebrates one of the biggest appeals of living in Barcelona: the harmony between professional life and personal enjoyment. Whether you’re new to the city, a long-term expat, or even a local, this year’s event will showcase how you can make the most of it. 

What’s new in 2024?

The 2024 edition of Barcelona International Community Day brings some exciting updates:

• New date & fresh look: Mark your calendars for the earlier date of September 28th. The event will once again take place at the Barcelona Maritime Museum, but this year, it has a refreshed visual identity that’s more aligned with Barcelona International Welcome (in case you haven’t made the most of this great service yet, it offers year-round support for those who’ve just arrived in the city). This new look reflects Barcelona’s commitment to being an open, welcoming city for global citizens.
• Expanded trade fair: The trade fair will feature 80 exhibitors, including companies, public institutions, and international schools. And for the first time, nearly 30% of these exhibitors are newcomers to the event. Whether you’re looking for relocation, legal, or education advice, you’ll find the experts you need all under one roof.

A packed program with 60+ activities

The event’s program is better than ever, with over 60 activities spread across three main themes:

1. Arriving & settling in BCN: Get practical advice on everything from understanding Barcelona’s healthcare system to managing the emotional aspects of relocation. Highlights include sessions on tax issues for internationals and finding the right school for your kids.
2. Work & business: This year’s professional track will cover topics like securing funding for entrepreneurs, creating a standout CV or acing a job interview with AI, and insights into Barcelona’s booming tech hubs. Barcelona Activa will also be there with resources to help you find a job or start a business in the city.
3. Enjoying & socializing in BCN: Looking to make connections and integrate? Have fun while doing it with activities like a language apéritif (vermut, of course!) where you can learn Catalan while networking, or join the speed networking sessions specifically designed for women professionals and the French-speaking community.

→ Check out this video for a glimpse into the event. 

Get inspired by host ambassadors

As always, Barcelona International Community Day will feature its inspiring host ambassadors—professionals from around the world who have made Barcelona their home. They’ll share their experiences and offer valuable insights into how Barcelona has supported their professional and personal growth. This year’s ambassadors include:

• Deepika Bhoolabhai (South Africa-India): Founder and Director of the SOAR school
• Alexa Ramírez (Costa Rica): Global Finance Project Leader at Bayer
• Amal Rahmeh (Lebanon): Researcher at the Barcelona Biomedical Research Park
• Joe Woodward (UK): Culinary Trainer and Founder of Delicious English
• Miroslav Stibůrek (Czech Republic): Artist, Designer, and Entrepreneur
• Nats Sisma (Philippines): Editor of The Filipino Expat Magazine

Family fun and Catalan culture

Barcelona International Community Day 2024 is more than just networking, it’s about celebrating the city’s diverse culture no matter your age or profession. Enjoy live performances, workshops, and for those with little ones, a children’s play area with tonnes of activities. This year’s event also includes a special display celebrating the 600th anniversary of the Gegants (giants) tradition and a dedicated space for the 37th America’s Cup, giving you an up-close look at the prestigious regatta.

Don’t forget the closing party

Wrap up the day with the ever-popular closing party from 6 to 7 pm. This year, there’s a DJ set in the Ágora room and a live concert in the Maritime Museum garden—what better way to celebrate a day well spent in the company of Barcelona’s brilliant international community?

Join us at Barcelona International Community Day 2024

With free entry and a packed schedule from 10 am to 7 pm, this is the event to help you connect with Barcelona’s international scene, gain practical knowledge, and celebrate the unique work-life balance that makes our city so amazing. Don’t miss out—register here now and we’ll see you there!

Until then, stay up to date by following the event on social media: