Barcelona, the jewel of Catalonia, dons its finest for the month of December. The lights twinkle on the Ramblas, the cool air is filled with laughter, and the Christmas spirit takes over the city. If you’re lucky enough to visit Barcelona in December, prepare yourself for unique experiences and delightful activities that will make you fall even more in love with this city.

Switching on the lights:

This November 23rd at 6.30 pm, Barcelona will don its finest in celebration of the bicentenary of the Paseo de Gracia, with a spectacular turning-on of the Christmas lights. The heart of the city will beat faster at an event that marks not only the beginning of the festive season, but also a historic milestone. Paseo de Gracia, perhaps the city’s most elegant shopping avenue, celebrates two centuries of history, and the occasion couldn’t be more special.

Just imagine it, twinkling lights reflecting off the modernist façades as the city is immersed in a festive glow. This switching-on of the lights is not merely a visual spectacle, but also a tribute to Barcelona’s history and culture. Families, locals and visitors alike come together to witness a magical moment that symbolises the connection between past and present on one of Barcelona’s most emblematic avenues.

So make a note of the date and join in the dazzle of the celebration. The switching-on of the lights will not only illuminate the streets, but will also light up the hearts of those who participate in this very special event in the heart of Barcelona, just 5 minutes from the Hotel Negresco Princess.

Christmas Markets:

Barcelona really turns on the charm with its Christmas markets, one of the most outstanding being the Santa Llúcia Market, located in the Plaça de la Catedral. This market boasts more than two centuries of tradition and is the perfect place to get yourself into the Christmas spirit. You can also head to the port and visit the Port Vell Christmas Fair, filled with colourful stalls offering local crafts, festive decorations, typical Catalan products and a Ferris wheel, and just 10 minutes from our Hotel Barcelona Princess, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to try the turrones and marzipans!

Christmas in the Sagrada Familia:

The Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece, really comes to life in a special way at Christmas, when lights illuminate this unique architectural work to create a truly magical atmosphere. Christmas masses and concerts are held inside the basilica, offering a spiritual experience in an incomparable setting. In addition, this year, the four Evangelist towers will be illuminated for the first time in celebration of the completion of their construction. The towers will remain lit until the 8th of January.

Els Llums de Sant Pau:

If you’re looking for a fun activity to enjoy with family or friends, there’s nothing like a visit to the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site, which will be transformed by the magic of Christmas.

This year, Els Llums de Sant Pau (The Lights of Sant Pau) take us on a journey in which each of the site’s attractions will infect us with the Christmas spirit in a different way. You may choose to enjoy a spectacular light show, an exciting skate on the new ice rink, the 16-metre Christmas tree, or explore a Nordic-style gastronomy market where you can sample a wide variety of produce.

Concerts and Performances:

During the festive season Barcelona offers a wide range of concerts and performances. From classical music at the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar to theatrical performances at the Liceu Theatre, there’s something for everyone. Check the city’s cultural programme for events that will complement your visit and immerse you in Barcelona’s arts scene.

Casa Batlló, another of Gaudí’s modernist jewels, will also be transformed into a light show during the month of December, when its façade will be illuminated with vibrant colours and shapes that evoke the essence of Christmas. A night-time visit to this iconic building is a unique experience that combines architecture, art and the magic of the festive season.

In short, during December and over the Christmas period, Barcelona transforms itself into a truly unique experience. The city overflows with joy, lights and special events that make every nook and cranny feel magical, so get ready to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and create unforgettable memories in this wonderful Catalan city!

Categories: Barcelona