If you have decided to celebrate Christmas in Spain, congratulations! The transformation of cities like Barcelona this time of year is quite a unique experience, one that is capable of dazzling visitors of all ages. Squares, avenues and emblematic monuments become charming settings where music, gastronomy, tradition and crafts merge to create a magical atmosphere.
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Christmas lights, fairs and markets
The switching on of the city's Christmas lights - taking place between the third and fourth weekends of November - marks the start of a multitude of events and activities centred around the most magical time of the year. Look up to see iconic streets of Barcelona such as Passeig de Gràcia adorned with elegant displays of light that multiply their beauty. Several of the designs are by established artists, and their works illuminate not only the city centre but also extend beyond it: La Rambla Prim and the Passeig Maragall. The first step for a first-hand experience of the local Christmas traditions is to visit historic markets where, in addition to enjoying choir performances, storytellers or parades, you can buy original decorative items, fashion accessories, ceramics, jewellery and costume jewellery, traditional sweets or even musical instruments. Don't forget to stroll through all of them and take the opportunity to buy your Christmas gifts. The Santa Llúcia Fair, located next to the Barcelona Cathedral, has been held for over 200 years. Other essential references are the Sagrada Familia Fair and the Gran Vía Kings Fair, where toys play a major role. Another option is the Port Vell Fair, located opposite the Columbus Monument, which usually features eye-catching attractions such as musical shows, a classic carousel and a giant Ferris wheel. Can you imagine taking in the city’s festive panorama from high up?For the little ones and their families, there’s also the Natalis festival at the Pueblo Español. It takes place between late November and early January and features a programme of activities and shows for all ages. It features tasteful Christmas décor and a festive atmosphere.
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Live nativity scenes
The representation of the birth of Jesus, in the so-called nativity scenes or cribs, is undoubtedly one of the most traditional and characteristic activities of Christmas in Spain. In Barcelona, places such as the cathedral, the town hall and the Monastery of Pedralbes put on display spectacular figurative nativity scenes.Another option is to visit the woodland surrounding the modernist Torre del Suro building in the El Guinardó district. There is an itinerary where you can discover a living Nativity scene focused on ancient trades and biblical passages whose actors and actresses are part of a project for people with intellectual disabilities.
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Special sporting events
If you want to keep fit during Christmas, you will be able to do so in Barcelona, as you have the opportunity to participate in very special events that combine sport and fun. One of these is the Copa Nadal - Spain's oldest open-water swimming race - featuring an exciting 200-metre course and held on 25 December at Port Vell. In addition, running enthusiasts have a date on 31 December for the Cursa dels Nassos; each year, this race brings together nearly 11,000 participants on a 10-kilometre city-street circuit to bid farewell to the year by breaking records. And to celebrate the first day of the new calendar in a refreshing way, the Atlètic-Barceloneta Swimming Club is organising a fun group swim in the Mediterranean. Finally, the International Kings' Hockey Tournament takes place in early January - an exciting competition that attracts the world's best players.
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New Year's Eve, The Three Wise Men and music shows
Barcelona's Avenida Maria Cristina is the epicentre of New Year's Eve celebrations. Hundreds of people gather to eat a grape for each of the 12 chimes of the new year, dance and toast with cava under a fireworks display. Many hotels and restaurants in the city organize exclusive parties to celebrate the new year by enjoying the best cuisine. The following day, it is customary to regain one's strength with a breakfast of churros and hot chocolate at places like the Feria de Reyes.Finally, the visit of Their Majesties. Finally, one of the most eagerly awaited events for children is visiting the Three Wise Men from the East, as they come loaded with gifts. Melchor, Gaspar and Baltasar arrive in Barcelona by boat on the afternoon of 5 January and take centre stage in a parade of spectacular floats and fairy-tale characters that winds its way through the city’s streets.Barcelona shines brighter than ever at Christmas, and its world-renowned concert halls, such as the Palau de la Música Catalana and the Liceu, celebrate the season with a special programme featuring the finest melodies, carols and classical Christmas compositions.
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