The city of Barcelona has unveiled its Bonus Cultura programme, aimed at increasing access to cultural events for various groups, particularly those at risk of social exclusion. The initiative will distribute more than 55,000 vouchers, each valued at €20, to facilitate attendance at live performances, including music, theatre, dance, and circus shows, as well as screenings of films in Catalan.
In a bid to promote the Catalan language, the programme stipulates that at least 70% of the overall cultural offerings must be in Catalan, ensuring a 100% quota for films and books. The Bonus Cultura programme specifically targets individuals who are typically disengaged from cultural consumption, especially those living in areas of the city facing digital divides or social exclusion. It also aims to attract young adults aged 18 to 30 and regular cultural consumers, allowing them to make the most of their cultural budgets.
How to access the Bonus Cultura
To obtain a voucher, users must create a profile on the programme's website. The system operates digitally, with each user receiving a preloaded wallet containing €20, which is integrated with major ticket sales platforms. For books, users can acquire digital vouchers through the website. The platform will always apply the best available price, and users can combine it with other discounts, allowing the balance to be used across multiple transactions.
The vouchers will be valid for three periods throughout the year, with the balance expiring if unused. The renewal periods are from 4 November to 10 January, 11 January to 25 April, and 26 April to 31 July.
Over 50 civic centres across Barcelona will play a crucial role in promoting the Bonus Cultura programme, providing information and guidance, particularly in neighbourhoods with traditionally lower cultural engagement, such as Trinitat Vella, Besòs and Maresme, Bon Pastor, Marina, and Verdun.
