When the first Christmas stalls appear, the street lights are switched on and children start asking when the Tió will arrive, we know the festive season is just around the corner. In Catalonia, Christmas is full of traditions that return year after year and continue to delight children and adults alike.
But beyond celebrations at home, it is also a wonderful time to get out and explore the region. Christmas in Girona comes alive with markets, live nativity scenes, shows and towns preparing for the festive season.
Would you like to discover some Christmas traditions in Catalonia and find out what to do on the Costa Brava and in the Pyrenees? Here are a few ideas to help you start planning your festive break.
At the beginning of December, many Catalan homes welcome a very special guest: the Tió de Nadal, a log with a smiling face, a traditional Catalan hat and a blanket.
In the days leading up to Christmas, children feed and look after it until, on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, the long-awaited moment arrives: making the Tió ‘poop’ presents. As they sing and hit the log with sticks, the Tió produces sweets and small gifts.
It is an especially fun tradition for little ones, who can also discover it at some of the region’s Christmas fairs and activities.
Fancy making a Christmas craft together as a family? We have prepared an activity so children can colour, cut out and assemble their own Tió de Nadal.
Simply download the template, colour in the pieces, cut them out and fold them to make your Tió. Add a little glue and it is ready!
DOWNLOAD YOUR CUT-OUT TIÓ DE NADAL
An ideal activity for a winter afternoon, whether at home or during a camping getaway.
Another major Christmas tradition is setting up the nativity scene, a representation of the birth of Jesus with miniature figures, houses, animals and landscapes.
In Catalonia, however, one figure attracts particular curiosity: the caganer. Hidden in a corner of the nativity scene, this character is part of Catalan popular culture and is often symbolically associated with the fertility of the land.
Live nativity scenes are among the most special Christmas traditions. In Girona, you can discover several well-known examples, such as the Living Nativity Scene of Castell d’Aro, considered the oldest in Catalonia; the one in Bàscara, beside the Fluvià River; the one in Pals, among medieval streets; and the one in Joanetes, surrounded by the landscapes of La Garrotxa.
A lovely way to experience Girona’s Christmas traditions with the family. Check the dates of each performance before visiting.
Strolling among craft stalls, discovering Christmas decorations and choosing small gifts are some of the pleasures of this time of year.
In Girona city, the Christmas market and street decorations invite you to explore the city centre and the Old Town. After dark, Girona’s Christmas lights create a special atmosphere in the squares and on the bridges over the Onyar River.
You can also discover the Christmas fairs and activities in Figueres, Olot and Camprodon, among other towns in the Girona region. A perfect excuse to wander through their streets, explore local shops and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Els Pastorets are traditional theatrical performances combining the story of the birth of Jesus with the adventures of shepherds, angels and devils.
With humour, music and familiar characters, they offer a cultural experience for the whole family to enjoy during the holidays.
Christmas carols continue to accompany celebrations, concerts and community gatherings. Songs such as El noi de la mare and Fum, fum, fum are part of Catalonia’s traditional Christmas repertoire.
Christmas traditions continue beyond 25 December. On 31 December, the Home dels Nassos (Man of the Noses) appears in some Catalan towns. According to legend, he has as many noses as there are days left in the year.
And on 5 January comes one of the moments children most eagerly await: the Three Kings parade. In Girona and many towns on the Costa Brava and in the Pyrenees, the streets fill with floats, music and excitement to welcome Their Majesties.
Christmas celebrations also revolve around the dining table. Traditional Catalan cuisine is an essential part of the festive season.
On Christmas Day, escudella i carn d’olla, a traditional broth with meat and vegetables, is one of the most characteristic dishes, often served with large pasta shells called galets. On Saint Stephen’s Day, 26 December, cannelloni take centre stage at many family tables.
And to finish the meal, turrón, neules (thin rolled wafers) and other Christmas sweets are a must.
During a getaway to Girona, visiting markets and shops selling local produce is a great way to discover these flavours and bring home a delicious souvenir.
Beyond its traditions, the Girona region offers plenty of activities for enjoying the Christmas atmosphere.
One option is to attend the Girona Christmas Circus, a show combining circus arts with a festive Christmas setting.
You can also visit charming villages, stroll along illuminated streets or go hiking through the Pyrenees’ winter landscapes. Discover the prettiest villages in Girona to visit at Christmas.
Why not make the most of the holidays this year with a special getaway?
Campsites in Girona that are open in winter are a great option for combining nature, relaxation and Christmas activities. Some offer bungalows and other fully equipped accommodation for a comfortable stay during the colder months.
Imagine starting your day with a walk through the woods, exploring a Christmas market in the afternoon and returning to the campsite to enjoy a peaceful evening with your family.
From the Costa Brava to the Pyrenees, you can plan your visits at your own pace and discover a different side of the region, away from the summer crowds.
Read our article about winter camping getaways in Catalonia and discover holiday ideas and accommodation open at this time of year.
This Christmas, give yourself time to connect, discover new traditions and enjoy Girona from its campsites.
The Tió de Nadal, the nativity scene with the caganer, Els Pastorets, Christmas carols and the traditional Christmas Day and Saint Stephen’s Day meals are among the most representative Catalan traditions.
You can visit Christmas markets, live nativity scenes, illuminated villages and family shows such as the Girona Christmas Circus. Workshops and children’s activities also take place in different towns.
Girona city, Figueres, Olot and Camprodon are among the places that traditionally host Christmas fairs and markets. Be sure to check the dates for each edition.
Yes. Some campsites on the Costa Brava and in the Girona Pyrenees stay open in winter and offer accommodation for a Christmas getaway. Check their opening calendars and availability before booking.