Christmas Markets
During the month of December many of the European cities dress up in tradition and take some of their public spaces to turn them into cozy Christmas markets that cover the atmosphere with a totally festive air: Berlin, Budapest, Vienna, Basel, are some of the most famous cities that light up their Christmas spirit and Barcelona is undoubtedly part of this list.
There are markets with years of history in the city, to the most modern ones with innovative proposals. They are installed from the end of November and some even stay until Christmas Day. In the different stalls you can find the classic pine trees, nativity scenes with figures of different sizes and designs, general home decorations, handmade gifts, toys, and you will also be attracted by the stalls that offer chestnuts, cheese, sausages, delicious nougat, churros and the inevitable chuches (sweets).
Some of the most traditional and popular characters in Catalonia when setting up the nativity scene are the traditional "caga tió" which is nothing more than a smiling trunk and is responsible for bringing gifts for children at Christmas; and the "caganer" which is a man half bent over doing his business outdoors, its presence is related to a meaning of prosperity and is located in a half-hidden space in the manger, currently they make modern versions with the faces of soccer players, politicians, singers, among other personalities. You will find these characters and much more in any of the markets of Barcelona.
We leave you the information of some markets so that you can visit them without fail and find everything you need for your Christmas celebration.
Among the most traditional ones are the following:
The most traditional of all. Take the square where the imposing Cathedral of Barcelona is located, with more than 190 stands.
Open from Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm from November 25 to December 23.
It is located in front of the famous work of Gaudí, in the square that bears his name.
Open from November 26th to December 23rd from 10am to 9pm.
- Fair of the Kings on Gran Via
It stands out for its offer of gifts, it will have around 200 stands that will occupy several sections of Gran Via de los Cortes Catalanes, from Plaça de la Universitat to Carrer de Calabria.
It will be open from December 16 until Three Kings Day.
Other options:
- Palo Market Fest, "Extraodinary Xmas"
Located in Poblenou. They will offer creative proposals of sustainable gifts this December 3 and 4 from 12h to 22h.
- Mercat de Nadal, Moll de la Fusta
Located on the shores of the port and facing the sea, a large and decorated tree will welcome you from December 5 to January 6 from 11h to 22:30. You will find stalls, recreational activities, gastronomic options, music and much more.
- Spanish Village Christmas Market
Fully decorated and full of Christmas spirit, the Poble Español opens its doors with a series of activities, being Santa Claus' house the protagonist of the space, where children will be able to leave their letters.
From December 3 to 11, December 17 and 18, December 22 to 29 (except December 25) and from January 2 to 8.
Source: Irbarcelona.com