Would you like to discover some Christmas traditions in Catalonia<\/strong> 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n At the beginning of December, many Catalan homes welcome a very special guest: the Ti\u00f3 de Nadal<\/strong>, a log with a smiling face, a traditional Catalan hat and a blanket. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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 Ti\u00f3 ‘poop’ presents<\/strong>. As they sing and hit the log with sticks, the Ti\u00f3 produces sweets and small gifts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It is an especially fun tradition for little ones, who can also discover it at some of the region’s Christmas fairs and activities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Fancy making a Christmas craft together as a family? We have prepared an activity so children can colour, cut out and assemble their own Ti\u00f3 de Nadal<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Simply download the template, colour in the pieces, cut them out and fold them to make your Ti\u00f3. Add a little glue and it is ready!<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n DOWNLOAD YOUR CUT-OUT TI\u00d3 DE NADAL<\/a> <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n An ideal activity for a winter afternoon, whether at home or during a camping getaway. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Another major Christmas tradition is setting up the nativity scene<\/strong>, a representation of the birth of Jesus with miniature figures, houses, animals and landscapes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In Catalonia, however, one figure attracts particular curiosity: the caganer<\/strong>. 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Live nativity scenes<\/strong> 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 B\u00e0scara, beside the Fluvi\u00e0 River; the one in Pals, among medieval streets; and the one in Joanetes, surrounded by the landscapes of La Garrotxa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A lovely way to experience Girona’s Christmas traditions with the family. Check the dates of each performance before visiting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Strolling among craft stalls, discovering Christmas decorations and choosing small gifts are some of the pleasures of this time of year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In Girona city<\/strong>, the Christmas market and street decorations invite you to explore the city centre and the Old Town. After dark, Girona’s Christmas lights<\/strong> create a special atmosphere in the squares and on the bridges over the Onyar River. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also discover the Christmas fairs and activities in Figueres, Olot and Camprodon<\/strong>, among other towns in the Girona region. A perfect excuse to wander through their streets, explore local shops and enjoy the festive atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Els Pastorets<\/strong> are traditional theatrical performances combining the story of the birth of Jesus with the adventures of shepherds, angels and devils. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With humour, music and familiar characters, they offer a cultural experience for the whole family to enjoy during the holidays. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Christmas carols<\/strong> continue to accompany celebrations, concerts and community gatherings. Songs such as El noi de la mare<\/em> and Fum, fum, fum<\/em> are part of Catalonia’s traditional Christmas repertoire. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Christmas traditions continue beyond 25 December. On 31 December<\/strong>, the Home dels Nassos<\/strong> (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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And on 5 January<\/strong> comes one of the moments children most eagerly await: the Three Kings parade<\/strong>. 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Christmas celebrations also revolve around the dining table. Traditional Catalan cuisine<\/strong> is an essential part of the festive season. <\/p>\n\n\n\n On Christmas Day, escudella i carn d’olla<\/strong>, 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<\/strong>, cannelloni take centre stage at many family tables. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And to finish the meal, turr\u00f3n, neules (thin rolled wafers) and other Christmas sweets<\/strong> are a must. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Beyond its traditions, the Girona region offers plenty of activities for enjoying the Christmas atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n One option is to attend the Girona Christmas Circus<\/strong><\/a>, a show combining circus arts with a festive Christmas setting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also visit charming villages, stroll along illuminated streets or go hiking through the Pyrenees’ winter landscapes. Discover <\/a>the prettiest villages in Girona to visit at Christmas<\/strong><\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Why not make the most of the holidays this year with a special getaway? <\/p>\n\n\n\n Campsites in Girona that are open in winter<\/strong> 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our article about <\/a>winter camping getaways in Catalonia<\/strong><\/a> and discover holiday ideas and accommodation open at this time of year. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Ti\u00f3 de Nadal: one of Catalonia’s most beloved traditions<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nChildren’s activity: make your own<\/strong> paper Ti\u00f3 de Nadal<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The nativity scene and the caganer: essential figures of Catalan Christmas<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Where can you see live nativity scenes in Girona?<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Christmas fairs and markets in Girona: crafts, lights and tradition<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Els Pastorets and Christmas carols: Christmas comes alive on stage too<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
From the Home dels Nassos to the Three Kings: the final Christmas celebrations<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What do people eat at Christmas in Catalonia?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to do in Girona at Christmas? Ideas for enjoying the festive season<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Experience Christmas from the campsites of Girona<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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