Christmas lights in Passeig de Gràcia

Hey! I’m Miriam, I recently started as Barcelona Assistant coordinator, a thrilling new experience. Along with Sandrine, Elena, Rose, Manuel and Maria, I will be around to welcome our students this spring semester. I’m so excited to meet everyone and help you enjoy this beautiful city, I know you’ll fall in love with it just like I have.

As we’ve bid our farewells to our fall semester students, we’re filled with so much love and appreciation for the memories shared. Though we were sad to see them go, we’re already excited to welcome our spring semester students into the amazing city of Barcelona this upcoming January. 

I am not originally from this city, but the more I’ve spent holidays here, the more I’ve grown to love Christmas in Barcelona. It is unlike anywhere else! Great traditions blend with the city’s vibrant culture to create a festive atmosphere that’s delightful. From twinkling cozy lights, and street festivals, to delicious treats, there’s no shortage of holiday magic here.

Fira de Santa Llùcia

Fira de Nadal a la Sagrada Familia

Whenever I’m around during the holidays, I make sure to check out some of Barcelona’s famous Christmas markets! One of the best ones is Fira de Santa Llúcia, a market set right in front of the stunning Barcelona Cathedral. Another favorite is the Fira de Nadal a la Sagrada Família, where the backdrop of Gaudí’s masterpiece adds a magical touch to the festive stalls. Both are filled with handcrafted decorations, local crafts, handmade jewelry, and traditional Catalan treats like neules (rolled crispy wafers) and turrón (nougat). These markets are the perfect place to soak up the holiday spirit.

Capo Tio

Here are two fun and unique traditions to look out for. Barcelona has the famous caga tio (the pooping log), a beloved Catalan Christmas tradition. This wooden log with a painted face and a barretina (traditional red Catalan hat), “poops” gifts for children. It is “fed” in the weeks prior to Christmas Eve, on which children  hit the log with sticks while singing a traditional song, and afterwards, the caga tio “poops” presents and candy. 

Caganer

Barcelona is also known for its caganer. This figurine, often seen in nativity scenes, portrays a person pooping, and it’s a beloved part of Catalan culture. It is whimsical, but the caganer carries rich symbolism. Some suggest it represents equality and the belief that everyone is fundamentally the same, and others see it as a sign of good luck, fertilizing the earth and ensuring good fortune. Whether you find it amusing or odd, you can’t miss this tradition when you visit the markets!

Three Kings Parade

In Barcelona, Christmas traditions are celebrated with a unique sparkle. Even after December is over, the celebrations continue. If you are one of our UPF, Elisava or UVIC students coming this spring, you can’t miss the Cavalcada de Reis (the Three Kings Parade) on January 5th. It is one of the biggest events of the season. The Three Kings take a tour through the streets of the city, bringing candy and happiness to everyone in their path.

Barcelona’s holiday magic is truly something special, from the festive markets to the different traditions and lively parades. It’s a city that knows how to celebrate. And wherever you are in the world, we hope everyone gets to share this joyful season!

Written by: Miriam, SAI Barcelona Assistant Coordinator