Christmas in Barcelona
The best markets, traditions and parties duringnadal
By Duncan Rhodes
Bon nadal, as we say in Catalonia! Welcome to our guide on celebrating the festive season in Barcelona. Below you’ll find everything you need to know aboutthe Xmas markets, weird local traditions like theCaganer, as well as some coolthings to dothis time of year…
If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas click the ‘back’ button now. Aside from the odd freak snowstorm, pretty flakes falling from the sky are not Barcelona’s forte. For that you’re better off packing your bags for Central or Eastern Europe, where spicy sausages and mulled wine (hopefully) stave off the frostbite.
The Catalan capital offers much more Christmas romance than many would imagine, and blue skies to boot…
Maybe, however, you don’t feel the compulsive need to shiver your way through the festive season, and would be quite happy to enjoy all the celebrations without the ice-induced tremulations? In which casebook your tickets to BCN right now!
The lights on Portal de l’Angel (photo byCarquinyol).
The Catalan capital offers much more Christmas romance than many would imagine, and blue skies to boot, and whether you’re more moved by seasonal carols and nativity cribs in the city’s awe-inspiring churches, applauding the brave as they dip into Port Vell harbour during the annual Christmas Day swim, orsniggering at the cheeky Caganerfigure on sale in celebrity form in many of the festive markets, then you’ll find plenty of things to see and experience at this time of year in Barcelona.
常见问题
Is Christmas a good time to visit Barcelona?
Provided you’re not looking for snow, Barcelona is a fine choice for a festive break. In addition to bustling Christmas markets and colourful street decorations, there are a number ofdelicious seasonal dishes to try, and some truly memorable Catalan traditions. The abundance of year-round flights and accommodation, means prices are not significantly inflated this time of year, and if youbook hotels in advancethere are even some great deals.
What is the weather like in Barcelona at Christmas?
The weather during the festive season is usually pretty mild, with temperatures during the day averaging 15 degrees Celsius, but often climbing higher at midday. In the evenings it cools off to average around 9 degrees Celsius. December is usually drier thanOctoberandNovember, and you should see plenty of blue skies.
Does Barcelona have Christmas markets?
Markets spring up all across the city from the end of November, and the main one is Fira de Santa Llúcia, celebrated in Barcelona since 1786. You can find it on Avinguda de la Catedral, the large square in front of the city’s Gothic Cathedral. Keep reading this page for info onmore markets。
What is there to do in Barcelona in December?
Gaudi, Picasso, Dali,188app彩票 ,wine tours,188188金宝搏 … there’s much more to do in Barcelona during December than just your Christmas shopping. Check out our article fora full list of events and suggestions。
Of course there’s the fantastic decorations as well, which include towering fir trees at in Plaça de Sant Jaume and Portal de l’Angel and spectacular lights on nearly every main street… although the best are usually reserved forLa Rambla。
We’ve got info on all of the above, on this very page, plus a look at the best parties thrown by local bars, clubs and restaurants. (NB: we’ve got a separate articlefor New Year’s Eve events!).
Christmas Traditions
Broadly speaking, Catalonia observes many of the same traditions and beliefs as other Catholic countries like France, Italy and Poland. Christmas Eve is considered as important, if not more important, than Christmas Day, and a lavish dinner is eaten with the family, before going out to visit friends, neighbours and extended family, often bringing gifts and singing carols. However, there are some traditions which are uniquely Catalan that deserve a special mention here:
Tio de Nadal
TheTió de Nadal(literally ‘Christmas uncle’ in Catalan, but better translated as ‘Christmas log’), or more commonly theCaga Tió(sh*tting log!), is just one of the region’s scatological oddities which is destined to amuse visitors for as long as the tradition survives. According to custom, a hollow log (usually about a foot long) is painted with a smiley face and put in the family home on the 8th December.
A log that sh*ts presents (photo byValerie).
The children of the family are then tasked with feeding theTióa little bit of food and drink every day in the build up to Christmas. Then, finally either on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve, the children beat the log with sticks and sing the following song:
Caga tio,caga torró, avellanes i mató, si no cagues bé et daré un cop de bastó. Caga tió
Which roughly translates to:
Sh*t log, sh*t nougats, hazelnuts and mató cheese, if you don’t sh*t well, I’ll hit you with a stick. Sh*t, log.
After the kids have given this verse a gleeful rendition, and smacked the poor branch good and proper, they should discover that some presents have magically appeared from the hollow of the log! In many ways its the Catalan equivalent of Santa filling children’s stockings. Travellers will find a giantTio de Nadalin Plaça Nova, just by the main Santa Llucia market (more info below!).
The Caganer
Not content with one x-rated, x-crement themed, X-mas tradition, the Catalans only went and invented a second. The Caganer is a cheeky chap to say the least, because in the middle of the holy nativity scene he sees fit to drop his peasant’s breeches and relieve his bowels in the presence of the newborn Jesus and the Virgin Mother.
Look out for celebrity versions of this peasant plopper (photo byOriol).
This, however, is not considered profane in Catalonia, rather it recalls pagan rituals of fertilising the soil and is considered good luck! Such is his cult status in Catalonia that you will find little statuettes of this peasant, usually squatting over his steaming newoeuvre d’art, on sale at all the Christmas markets. In fact, you’ll also find celebrity versions of him for sale, in the likeness of Messi, Barack Obama, Bart Simpson, Donald Trump… you name it!
You can check out some ofmy Caganer photos right here。
…article continues after photo.
Christmas Markets
There are various markets, known asfirasin Catalan, set up around BCN at this time of year… let’s start with the biggest:
Fira de Santa Llúcia
Barcelona’s main Christmas fair has been going for over 225 years: you’ll find it camped underneaththe city’s imposing Gothic Cathedral。大多数的摊位已经变成了销售festive decorations, nativity-scene figures (including the infamous, aforementioned,Caganerin all his usual, and celebrity, guises!), handmade crafts, traditionalzambombas(friction drums) and seasonal trees and shrubs. The Santa Llúcia market opens at the end of November and finishes on the 23rd December, opening hours 10am to 9pm. Their website is available in several different languages, including English.
firadesantallucia.cat
Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Familia
Another traditional Christmas market, this time in front ofGaudi’s otherworldly Sagrada Familia church, thisFira de Nadalboasts around 120 stalls and occasional appearances from Father Christmas to collect letters from children and to hand out sweets and balloons. The website just points totheir Instagramfor now, but hopefully they update it soon with the dates for 2022. Most likely it will open from the end of November, until 23rd December.
firanadalsagradafamilia.com
Port Vell Fair
Barcelona’s newest Xmas market, the Port Vell Fair can be found at the Moll de la Fusta (at the foot of the Christopher Columbus Statue), and typically features the city’s biggest Christmas tree, lit-up with LED lights, a Ferris Wheel and a floating nativity scene. Unlike some of the other fairs, which wrap up (pun intended) on the 23rd December, this one usually keeps going until 5th January. At time of press, concrete dates hadn’t been posted, just check the website for the 2022 dates.
www.nadalalportvell.com
Food Artisans Market
TheFira del Col·lectiu d’Artesans de l’Alimentació,叫它是冗长的加泰罗尼亚标题,an annual market that pops up in Plaça Santa Maria del Pi (bythe church of the same name), in the Gothic District, several times a month. In the run in to Christmas, it sets out its stalls almost every other day, selling artisanal treats such as Catalan honey, chocolates, cheeses, wines and cakes. A good one for non-kitsch stocking fillers. Official is thin on the ground, but the city website has the bare boneshere。
Special Events
Naturally being Chrimbo, there’s going be a few special events taking place… here are a few favourites to check out. I also heard a rumour that theFont Magica(aka Magic Fountain) spews forth its magic light and water show to the sound of Christmas carols during this time of year.
Father Christmases Parade (mid December)
Every year hundreds of school children, dressed as Santa Claus, parade down L’Avinguda Madrid in the Sants District, joined by floats, dancers and giants, as well as Guardia Urbana’s mounted band. The district’s fire devils provide an explosive finish. The event is called theCavalcada del Pare Noel a Santsin Catalan. More infohere。
Harbour Swim (25th December)
Taking place at noon on Christmas Day itself, this testicle-shrinking sports event is a 200m dash across the Barcelona harbour for the brave. Even the Mediterranean is freezing this time of year! The Copa Nadal (“Christmas Cup”) has been organised every year since 1907 by theSwimming Club of Barcelona, when Edwald Poescheke won with a time of 3’17 “02. Head to theChristopher Colombus statuebefore noon if you want to spectate!
Three Kings Parade (5th January)
WhilstCaga Tiodefecates a few pressies here and there on Xmas itself, the main present giving in Catalonia and Spain takes place when the Wise Men arrive to deliver their gifts to the Son of God, during Epiphany (6th January). The day before (i.e. the 5th Jan!), in what is one of Barcelona’s most spectacular annual events, the Three Magi cruise into Port Vell by galleon, collect the letters of children, and then embark on a parade of peerless pomp on well-dressed floats around town, dishing out sweets here, there and everywhere. The action starts at around 4pm, when the ship bearing the Three Kings floats into port.
Christmas Activities & Tours
Sprinkle some extra magic into the festive period with these fun and cultural activities…
Barcelona Winter Card
Back for 2022, is the Winter Tourist Card from Tiqets.com. The Card includes a fab four of attractions, starting with the unmissable Sagrada Familia and a self-guided city tour, and including two more festive treats: tickets for the Barcelona Tourist Bus and to the incredible Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site. Head here formore info and to buy your card。
1. Christmas With A Local
Make the most of the festival season by hiring a local guide to take you around. From picking you up at your hotel, your host will take you to the famous Fira de Santa Lucia market and explain the rituals behind theTio de NadalandCaganer。You’ll be taken to the streets with the best Christmas lights and call by Barcelona’s nativity scene. Bookthis Christmas walking tour via Get Your Guide。
2. Merry Markets Christmas Tour
Climb to the top of Barcelona Cathedral for epic views over the city, explore the Fira de Santa Lucia, the Food Artisans Market and the Port Vell Christmas Fair, and enjoy a warming mug of hot chocolate withchurros(Catalan doughnuts!), during this private tour of the city during the festive season. Reservevia Get Your Guide。
3. Christmas Sailing
One surprise activity that you can do throughout December, even on the 25th itself, isa spot of sailing。The weather is often surprisingly fine this time of year and whilst we wouldn’t advocate partaking the aforementioned Harbour Swim, taking a yacht out for a spin is another matter. Youcan book the “Vermouth & Sailing” boat trip directly on Sailing Experience BCN, with departures at 9:30am, 12pm and 2:30pm. The price is just €44 per person.
4. Visit The Ice Bar
If you do want a temporary blast of frost, Barcelona’s very own Ice Bar has a sub-zero chamber full of amazing frozen sculptures. Even the glasses are made of ice! The bar is right by the beach, and remains open throughout the Christmas season.Read more and get your tickets here。
5. Flamenco Shows
Catching a flamenco concert is one of the most popular things to do for travellers over the winter season, and a great way to pass those long December nights. We’ve written an extensive article on188188金宝搏
。Arguably the city’s top venue is Tablao Cordobes, and you can readour review and how to get tickets here, or simply grab ticketsvia Get Your Guide。Another great option is this popularFlamenco & Tapas evening, which is only €45, all included.
6. Christmas Lights Night Tour by Bus
Organised by none other than Barcelona’s official tourist board, this seasonal nighttime bus tour takes place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night in December. You’ll hop on board one of the city’s iconic tourist buses and take a 1.5 hour ride around Barcelona’s best-looking locations – The Sagrada Família, the Arc del Triomf and Passeig de Gràcia – decked out in Christmas lights. Very affordable at just €15 per person. Book onlinehere。
BOOK CHRISTMAS LIGHTS NIGHT TOUR
7. Night Photography Tour
Take advantage of the long winter nights, and colourful Christmas decorations to improve your night time photography. On this private tour, one ofShutter King’sseasoned professional photographers will accompany you around the city at night, helping you shoot iconic architecture like the LED-lit Torre Glories or Gaudi’s monstrous Sagrada Familia to incredible effect. Whether you own a DSLR or an iPhone, by the end of the tour you’ll have some stunning pics, and be able to take nighttime photos with confidence. Just email them and ask for the nocturnal version oftheir popular photo tours。
8. La Sagrada Familia
Christmas is a busy time in Barcelona, so don’t forget to grab your tickets in advance to the city’s top sight… La Sagrada Familia. Where better to celebrate JC’s birthday, after all, than atGaudi’s tribute to the holy trinity? Reserve快速通道票via Get Your Guide, or check out all their differenttour options。
9. Local Bike Tour
The air is little crisper this time of year, but that won’t stop Steel Donkey Bike Tours saddling up and showing their guests around the hidden corners of Barcelona. Pioneers of small group tourism, Steel Donkeys ride in groups of no more than 8 travellers, meaning you can scoot around town easily and even stop for a hot drink and snack along the way. Christmas is a busy time of year for them, sosnap up your spacesahead of time.
If you’re still searching for inspiration for your festive visit to Barcelona, check out ourepic list of things to do。Just be prepared to extend your trip when you see what the city has to offer!
Christmas Meals & Parties 2022
So you’ve brought your Messi-faced Caganer at the markets, enjoyed the lights on Portal de l’Angel, and watched the Christmas harbour swim… now where can you get a traditional Christmas lunch?
La Whiskeria (15th to 24th Dec)
Barcelona’s most elegant whisky bar is serving up a delicious three-course festive lunch-time meal, twice a day, between the 15th and 24th December. Pop along for Kentucky-style prawn cocktail (starter), full Christmas lunch with stuffing, pigs in blankets and Yorkshire puddings (main), and chocolate, whisky and berry trifle (dessert). The cost is €45 and includes welcome cocktail. Vegans are catered for with a tasty alternative menu. Advance reservations are essential, and can be made on the Events section oftheir website。
Flaherty’s Christmas Meal (25th Dec)
If you simply can’t stomach the thought of Christmas without a traditional turkey lunch, in convivial company and a homely surrounds, then look no further thanFlaherty’s Irish Bar。The heart of Barcelona’s international scene, this is where expats, tourists and locals come together to enjoy a beer or three! Their four course Xmas meal includes stuffed roasted turkey breast and ham with cranberry sauce, a selection of starters, and complimentary glass of Cava. At €38 per head even Ebeneezer Scrooge wouldn’t flinch at forking out. Reserve your table by emailing:bookings@pflaherty.com
– Christmas Meal for Teams / Groups
For those that can’t make it on the 25th, but still want to indulge in some festive cheer, Flaherty’s offer the same menu for groups of 6 or more – perfect for large groups of friends, or companies throwing their Christmas bash. Drop them a line onbookings@pflaherty.com
The Old Irish Pub(24th and 25th Dec)
Night owls who don’t want to stay at home over Christmas will be pleased to know that the Old Irish Pub will be opening its doors from 10pm til late on the 24th and 25th. Expect a convivial and cosmopolitan atmosphere at this party-loving venue on Las Ramblas. With a bit of luck you’ll find someone to kiss under the mistletoe.
More Options…
The above events are far from an exhaustive list of your festive options, so don’t forget you’ll findsome of the best places to eat in the cityin our restaurants section, along with their contact details, so you can see what else is cooking duringNavidad。
Meanwhile, plenty of bars will be open as usual and in festive spirit. Find some of the best in townright here。
Private Christmas Parties
If you need to book your ownprivate function, either for the office or for friends, then the Flaherty’s Christmas menu is available throughout December. Reservations viabookings@pflaherty.com。
Another great venue offering office teams or groups of friends the chance to celebrate Christmas under their roof isBelushi’s Bar, who have created a special festive menu of buffets and shared platters to choose from.
Or head to ourEat sectionor ourDrink sectionfor more inspiration.
Further Reading…
You’ll find many more Xmas events and activities and info onthe city’s official website, whilst we have also recently written aboutour favourite things do do in December, Christmassy or otherwise, so do check that out.