If you’re looking for a Christmas celebration unlike any other you’ve ever experienced, Barcelona is the perfect place for you this holiday season! December is an ideal month in this exotic region; the Barcelona Christmas weather isn’t too chilly, holiday activities are in full swing, and the streets and buildings are lavishly decorated. Exciting festivities, traditional culture, and welcoming locals make Christmas in Barcelona a truly magical time of year.
An Overview of Christmas in Barcelona
The Christmas season in Barcelona officially begins on December 8th, which is known as the Feast of Immaculate Conception, a day centered on the belief that the Virgin Mary was conceived without sin. The majority of families in Barcelona begin decorating for Christmas on this day. Usually the most prominent Christmas decorations in the typical Barcelona home are the Nativity scenes (complete with the traditional caganer) displaying the stable of Bethlehem. Christmas Eve (La Nochebuena) is observed with an extravagant dinner to celebrate the birth of Christ, and Christmas Day is celebrated December 25th with gifts and meals; most businesses are closed to honor this day. The end of the Christmas season is marked by Three Kings’ Day on January 6th; this holiday, even more widely observed than Christmas Day, represents the day the Three Wise Men arrived to visit Jesus and is celebrated by a large parade the evening before.
Things to Do in Barcelona for Christmas
Barcelona Christmas Market: Christmas fairs and markets are a must-see during Christmas in Barcelona! Some of the most popular markets are Fira de Santa Llúcia, which is filled with beautiful displays and performances, and the Fira de Reis, where you can find a wide selection of goods, candies, and toys (mostly handcrafted). Many other fairs and Christmas markets are scattered amongst the villages during this season. There’s also the Festival de la Infancia, a fair with activities specifically for children, such as storytelling, games, and crafts.
Skating: Another popular activity during Christmas in Barcelona is ice skating; Catalunya Square, an iconic plaza surrounded by monumental buildings, is transformed into a temporary ice rink during the winter seasons and attracts visitors of all ages.
Lights: Barcelona is well-known for their light exhibits during the holiday season! Almost 300 streets are adorned with dazzling light displays and every district of the city presents its own towering Christmas tree.
Special Events: The Harbour Swim (Copa Nadal) is a swim across Barcelona’s freezing harbour on Christmas morning. This tradition dates back to 1907 and has been a sight for spectators to enjoy every year since! The Three Kings’ Parade is another famous Barcelona Christmas tradition that always occurs on January 5th. This three-hour procession begins at 6:00pm and follows a 5 kilometer route. Various artists, such as musicians, dancers, and circus performers, all participate to create this beautiful and traditional festivity.
Celebrate The Tradition of the Barcelona Christmas Log: One of the most unique aspects of Christmas in Barcelona is the tradition of the Caga Tió (the Spanish Christmas poo). A log with a cartoon face is placed by the hearth, and the children of the household present food to the log in exchange for gifts that it poops-out.
Come Stay with Us at bizFlats!
If any of these sights or events have peaked your interest, Christmas in Barcelona is the perfect winter getaway for you! bizFlats offers a wide assortment of different lofts, studios and penthouses, apartments and villas to rent in spectacular areas of Barcelona. Come experience luxurious living in one of the most exhilarating places on earth. New Years in Barcelona is an amazing experience, as well!
Photo: Núria / Flickr