This year’s Christmas essentials in Barcelona

Barcelona is an unbeatable tourist destination all year round, but sometimes it’s just that extra little bit special. And one of those times is undoubtedly Christmas. To stroll through the city at this special time of year is to step into a world of light, joy and colour, all showcasing the magical spirit of Christmas. But besides some great Christmas lights and decorations, during Christmas time, Barcelona offers a whole host of great things to see and do, from musical and charitable events to amazing leisure activities for all tastes, ages and budgets. We’ve selected some of our essentials you simply cannot afford to miss during Christmas time in Barcelona this year:

Christmas markets

The most famous is the Fira de Santa Llúcia, but the city is home to dozens of other great options. Characterised by all kinds of gifts, no matter how big or small, games, toys, sweets and local produce, visiting the Barcelona Christmas markets is about being carried away on the magic of all things festive.

Plaza de Sant Jaume Nativity Scene

Located at Plaza de Sant Jaume, the city’s famous nativity scene is a tribute to poet Josep Vicenç Foix. Those responsible this year for reinterpreting his poem, which the famous Catalan writer dedicated to all things Christmas, are Quim Domene and Toti Toronell. The end result is a nativity scene made up of some giant inflatable balls and landscapes from across the country, all representing popular Christmas culture.  The Sant Jaume Nativity Scene can be visited from 10.00 until 22.00 all the way until 8 January.

Dia Més Curt short film festival

The Barcelona Centre of Contemporary Culture (CCCB) will host an event this festive season that showcases short films with a special programme designed for young people and families to enjoy. Furthermore, they’ll screen the most outstanding short films from the Catalunya Film Festival and the winner of the Palme d’Or in Cannes. A unique way to celebrate the shortest day of the year!

Responsible living fair

The second responsible living fair will throw open its doors until 4 January at Plaza Catalunya offering a great range of products, services and activities from organisations that provide responsible ways of living. You’ll find everything from great food and drink, clothing, training and ethical insurance to responsible phone contracts.

The magic of Christmas at La Pedrera

A unique opportunity to enjoy one of Barcelona’s most special landmarks with even the littlest members of the family. The Màgia del Nadal event at La Pedrera will offer a range of great activities, including workshops, storytelling, puppets, magic shows and more – something for the whole family to enjoy on 28 December.  New this year, a mysterious character will be your perfect guide as you discover all the corners of La Pedrera in the company of magic and good fun.

Meet Spain’s famous Tió Solidari

Catalunya Radio is promoting a charity campaign once again this year helping to collect food for babies whilst paying homage to a genuine Catalan tradition, Tió. At Bonpreu, Esclat and Abacus Cooperativa, you’ll be able to buy €1 vouchers to make Tió Solidari as fat as possible, feeding him up in the run up to Christmas and until 5 January. Afterwards, all the proceeds will go to families with children and babies struggling to get the food they need.

On 23 December, a giant 8-metre Tió character will make an appearance at the city’s Coliseum Theatre. Catalunya Radio will also be running a special programme from the theatre and collecting food to fill the giant Tió with food.

Cursa dels Nassos Race

A great way to bid farewell to another year by getting fit. The charity race begins on 31 December at 15.00 and covers the streets of Barcelona as part of the 10km course. The Cursa dels Nassos event attracts runners from over 50 countries in all types of physical condition.

Circuses

Three amazing circus shows pitch up in Barcelona during the Christmas period. La Monumental will play host to the ethnic jungle of Il Circo Italiano ‘Vida’ and Fira de Barcelona is all set to welcome Gran Circo Americano until 8 January. What’s more, the ‘Invisibles’ Winter Circus will take place at Fàbrica de Creació Ateneu Popular with trapeze and balance artists, as well as some great music, until 22 January.

These are just some of the great things to see and do in Barcelona this Christmas season. Why not come and experience the very best of life in the city and enjoy all the magic of Christmas in Barcelona.

Categories: barcelona