Why Water Guns Are The New Symbol of Anti-Tourism Protests in Barcelona?

In Barcelona, the humble plastic water gun has been making waves as an unexpected symbol of local frustration with overtourism. And if you’re planning a trip to Spain this summer — especially as a Muslim traveller looking for culture, cuisine, and calm — here’s why this matters.

How it all started

The story begins in July 2024, when a small, left-wing activist group in Barcelona, the Neighbourhood Assembly for Tourism Degrowth, decided to hold a rally. Their aim? To push back against the city's booming tourism industry and its impact on daily life.

It was hot, so naturally, some protestors brought water guns to stay cool. But soon, the guns were turned toward tourists, not maliciously, but symbolically. That simple act was caught on camera, and like many quirky moments in the age of social media, it went viral.

Suddenly, the water gun wasn’t just for fun. It became a protest symbol. And just like that, a cheeky squirt turned into a powerful message: “We’re fed up.”

What’s the issue with tourism in Barcelona?

Barcelona is no stranger to international love. From Sagrada Familia to the sunny beaches, the city is a magnet for travellers, including Muslim visitors, who are often drawn by its rich Islamic history, halal food scene, and easy prayer access.

But for locals, the tourism boom comes with downsides:

• Skyrocketing rents driving out long-time residents.

• Overcrowding in public transport and neighbourhoods.

• Local businesses have been replaced by souvenir shops and overpriced cafes.

• And now, anti-tourism protests are becoming more frequent.

On a recent Sunday, over 1,000 protestors marched through the city, including along Passeig de Gràcia, a luxury shopping street often packed with tourists. Their destination? The world-famous Sagrada Familia. But police halted the march before they could reach it.

A spritz of protest: What tourists experienced

Protestors came armed — not with hostility, but with water guns. Some shot into the air, others squirted signs or sprayed at the ground near tourists. A few did hit tourists directly, prompting mixed reactions.

• Some found it refreshing (it was 30°C after all).

• Others were frightened or upset, especially by the accompanying chants: “Tourists go home!”

One visitor from Taiwan, Nora Tsai, said she was saddened but still loved the city and its people. Another hostel worker, after being squirted, responded with anger, even spitting at protesters. Clearly, what might seem like harmless fun to some can feel like unwelcome hostility to others.

Why the water gun?

For protestors like Lourdes Sánchez, the water gun is symbolic: “It’s not to hurt anyone. It shows we’re fed up with how tourism is transforming our country into a theme park.”

Another demonstrator, Andreu Martínez, was more candid: “It’s to bother the tourists a bit.”

Still, most say the real message is aimed at local authorities and tourism businesses, not travellers themselves.

What this means for Muslim travellers

As Muslim-friendly tourism grows in Spain, with more halal restaurants, prayer spaces, and Islamic heritage tours available, this issue is especially important to understand. Here's what you should know:

• Don’t panic. Most locals are still welcoming, especially outside of protest hotspots.

• Stay respectful. Be mindful when taking photos, using public transport, or dining out in residential areas.

• Support ethical tourism. Choose locally-owned halal eateries, visit during off-peak times, and stay in neighbourhoods that welcome visitors sustainably.

• Know where protests might happen. Stick to official travel advisories, and if you spot a demonstration, it’s best to observe from a distance.

Final thought

Barcelona is still one of Europe’s most magical cities — from its halal tapas bars to its Andalusian heritage trails. But it’s also a place where residents are raising their voices (and their water guns) to say enough is enough.

If you’re visiting soon, be a respectful, informed traveller. Who knows — your kindness might be the most powerful message of all.

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All image credit goes to AP Photo/Pau Venteo