Things to do this Christmas in Barcelona
Christmas has finally come to Barcelona. The days are getting shorter, the air colder and Christmas decorations are beginning to take over the shops. Lights, gold and red colours, stars, presents, toys, perfume, cava, Christmas markets, turron and panettone…..All this in preparation for the festive season. Here are some ideas so that you can enjoy a wonderful Christmas in Barcelona.
ICE-SKATING – In Plaza Catalunya right in the heart Barcelona,a giant ice rink has been set up so you can practice your skating skills. With 1,200m2 of ice and a 350 person capacity, the ice rink is covered by a semi-transparent dome which will have images projected onto at night. The rink also has a café where you can warm yourself with some delicious hot chocolate and churros. Where: Plaza Catalunya. When: The 22nd of November to the 7th of January from 10am to 9pm Mon to Friday, and until 11pm Friday and Saturday. Price: 30 minutes 7€, 1 hour 9€.
CHRISTMAS TREES – Over the festive season there will Christmas trees at the most iconic places in the city. They comprise six-metre high fir trees with Christmas decorations and lights. The most spectacular of all will be the one they set up in Plaza Catalunya. Where: Different places across the city. When: During the Christmas Period.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS – The Barcelona Christmas lights will be switched soon. Thousands of lights will be filling the main streets and avenues in Barcelona with colour once again including Passeig de Gràcia, the Rambla and Avenida Diagonal, etc. Where: Different places across Barcelona. When: From the 22nd of November to the 6th of January. They will be switched on every day from 6pm to 11pm and for a little longer over the weekend and Public Holidays.
SHOPPING NIGHT– Coinciding with the switching on of the Christmas lights is a new edition of “Barcelona Shopping Night”. The elegant stores located on Passeig de Gracia, will be open all night so you can go shopping. They will also be organising activities on the street, as well as guided tours, tastings, cocktails, make up sessions and promotions, amongst others. A real shopping fest! Where: Passeig de Gracia and adjoining streets. When: The 28th of November from 8pm. Price: Free. To go into the shops you will need a “shopping passport” which you can get by registering on the official website.
NATIVITY SCENES AND CAROLS – This year, the traditional nativity scene will be set up opposite the City Hall. On the day that the nativity scene is unveiled, there will be a band playing so that those who would like to show off their carol singing abilities can do so. Where: Plaza Sant Jaume. When: From the 1st of December.