Say 'hola' to Barcelona at Rotary Convention
The Rotary International Convention is coming to Barcelona 26-30 June, the first convention in Europe since 2019
30 Jun 2026
The Rotary International Convention is coming to Barcelona in June, and members who’ve visited the city along the sea or who live there can hardly contain their excitement.
They want other Rotary members (yes, you!) to experience the energy, culture, and renowned landmarks of the city they love. Speaking of landmarks, the timing of the 26-30 June convention is perfect for visiting Barcelona’s signature attraction, the Sagrada Família basilica. Under construction for more than 140 years, the Antoni Gaudí masterpiece reached a milestone after workers finished its final, tallest tower earlier this year.
Image credit: Getty Images
Some members are saying they’re excited to make this their first convention — or to return for another. The gathering has been compared to the United Nations because it often attracts members from 150 countries or more.
Other members are excited to revisit the city after attending the last convention there in 2002, and European members are sure to show up in force for the first convention on their continent since 2019. Rotarians and Rotaractors in Spain can’t wait to welcome you to the city known for its warm spirit, breathtaking architecture, food that you’ll remember years later, and stunning Mediterranean beaches.
Stroll the Plaça d’Espanya where prominent corridors converge at a sprawling plaza of museums, public art, restaurants, a bullfighting ring, and the Magic Fountain light show. And get tickets in advance for Park Güell with its gardens, play spaces, and more of Gaudí’s ornamental architecture.
What speakers, performers, excursions, learning topics, and inspiration are convention organizers lining up? They’re hard at work on a program that is sure to impress (Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai spoke at the convention last month). They’ll combine Rotary traditions, world-class experiences, and the chance for stress-free travel.
This story originally appeared in the July 2026 issue of Rotary magazine.