THE LOUIS VUITTON 37TH AMERICA’S CUP RACE VILLAGE IS BARCELONA'S NEW HOTSPOT

Families, young people, locals, curious onlookers, avid sailing enthusiasts and amateur sailors alike, have been gathering at Barcelona’s newest hotspot: the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Race Village. Opened on August 22, the venue has since captivated visitors with its diverse range of entertainment activities, high-quality food, and a delightful coastal atmosphere - all right in the heart of Barcelona. And best of all, access to the Race Village is completely free.

Spanning approximately 25,000 square meters, the Race Village set up at Moll de la Fusta strikes a perfect balance between the cutting-edge technology of the AC75 yachts and the peaceful ambience of Port Vell enjoyed from the shade of some of Barcelona’s characteristic trees.

With numerous terraces set up throughout the Race Village, visitors can switch between dining areas, chilling zones along the waterfront, or spaces dedicated to watching the live race broadcasts. Three large screens are located at each of the two entrances and in the central zone. At the latter, a stage is set up for cultural performances and those of partners or sponsors, as well as for pre and after-race activities.

That is where the day kicks off at 12 noon, as the event's hosts get visitors warmed with a broadcast of each team's departure from the dock. Just a very short walk away, the most enthusiastic (or simply curious) fans can also watch the dock-outs live. It's a unique experience for everyone – especially for those just discovering the America's Cup.

During the racing window – from 1400 to 1700 – the crowd primarily gathers in the designated areas for live broadcasts, with commentary available in Catalan, Spanish, or English, depending on the chosen zone. Whether you relax in the shade of the trees or under the awning, you can follow the races in comfort while enjoying a wide range of culinary options.

The variety and quality of the food is impressive and provided by a rotating group of vendors. There are up to twelve suppliers on weekends, offering local, regional, national, and international specialties. From grilled Mediterranean cuisine to oysters, pizza, and Catalan pastries, there are top quality affordable options for every palate.

Once the races finish, the walkways of the Race Village come alive again. It's time to see the teams docking in – either close up or on the big screens – to stretch your legs, or grab a drink. At the stage zone, while transitioning to one of the most anticipated moments of the day, people can enjoy some fun activities such as quizzes, the kiss cam, and more. 

Then comes the golden hour for the sailing enthusiast: two sailors from each team take the stage in the central plaza to talk about their race day, answer questions from the hosts and the audience, pose for photos, and interact with fans.

This is one of the pick moments of the day at the Race Village. With the racing day complete, visitors, fans, neighbours, athletes, and team members mingle throughout the Village to enjoy alongside the boats, listening to nice music, sipping on refreshing drinks, or leisurely participating in the interactive activities offered by the America's Cup sponsors. 

That's exactly what Daniel Invernón and Anna Alcazar have come to do. As amateur sailors, they were delighted at having the 37th America's Cup taking place in Barcelona, and with much more to come, they are already hoping the event stays for the next edition.

“We believe this is a great opportunity for both sides – for the city and for the America's Cup,” Anna says. For these two Catalans, “since the 1992 Olympics, Barcelona hasn't had such a significant revolution as the one it's currently experiencing for this event; as citizens, we love it.”

The event areas have also won over locals, especially these two neighbours of the Race Village. “The spaces that have been set up are accessible to everyone and that, in addition to breaking stereotypes linked to sports, is always a benefit for those of us who live here. We will be enjoying and super-engaged with the whole event up until October.”

Some fans want to experience the event even closer – in fact, from the inside.. This is the case of Simone Cartini from Turin, Italy. Another amateur sailor, he is in Barcelona specifically to volunteer for the 37th America's Cup and, of course, to cheer for his country's team – Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli.

“There is a ton to do in the Race Village - lots of activities, awesome people from all over the world, both fans and those who are just curious. It’s a huge event and I am stoked it is happening in Europe. It’s amazing to spend my day after my shift just watching the races, grabbing a drink, hanging out with some friends, and enjoying the show. It’s even better being here in Barcelona, but hopefully, next time it’ll be in Italy." he said.

But the Race Village is not a must-be place just for America's Cup enthusiasts. Eva Font del Tarre and Eric Hiensch were buying some croissants for their two kids, who were thrilled with the interactive activities – even though at age eight and nine they were just too small to try the AC75 cyclor simulator.

It is now 1830, and the family say they arrived at the Race Village before 1400. “The kids really liked the simulator and learned a lot from it”, says the mother who asks them, ‘Would you come back tomorrow?’ and both reply energetically at once, “Yes!”. 

The family, who lives far from Port Vell, came specifically to check out the event area and highlight the opportunity to do something new together. “It's really cool and well organised.”

On race days, the Race Village remains open to the public until 2200 on weekdays or 2300 on Fridays and Saturdays. Visitors can enjoy interactive activities at the sponsor booths, sample delicious food, watch cultural and music performances, or simply relax and watch the boats and coastal scenery while sipping a cold drink during a pleasant Barcelona evening.

Renata Eschiletti
Volunteer