If you haven't experienced Barcelona's Fiestas de Gracia, then you're in for a treat. Every year, at the end of August, the Gracia neighborhood lights up, goes crazy and stays awake 24/7. Each street competes to have the wildest designs, the most innovative themes and the most elaborate decor.

This is undoubtedly one of Barcelona's most intense competitions, with teams starting to plan months or even a year in advance. In addition to the street parties, the entire neighborhood of Gracia runs rampant with live bands and entertaining booths for children and adults. Other features include special foods, free drinks and an overall extremely exciting atmosphere.

Fiestas de Gracia — Photo courtesy of Jared Goralnick

Even though each Barcelona neighborhood has its own party throughout the year, Gracia's festivals somehow take the cake. What was once a city unto itself, Gracia has that unique flavor and special touch. It's a place where you can feel the locals’ loyalty to their barrio ("neighborhood") and to its restaurants, its bars, its shops, its people and its grand celebrations.

The Gracia Fiestas take place the last two weeks of August. This is a definite must-see attraction if you're in town during this time in summer, as the celebration is a sight unlike any other.

For current information about this year's festivities, visit Barcelona-Tourist-Guide.com.